Part II

PhD Program Overview 2020-2021

Abstract

A Year in Perspective

The 2020–21 academic year has been like no other. Subjected to forces, which are sometimes beyond our comprehension, we have been forced to rethink how we all live our lives on our planet. Shifting through different levels of lockdown, the PhD Program embraced a fully virtual model. This gave the program the opportunity of conducting its agenda with as much regularity as possible. Adapting to these new criteria has been challenging. However, reflecting on what is now gone and what we currently have has allowed us to make the best use of our resources. Our weekly Architectural Research Forum became a platform for PhD students and candidates to debate on their diverse research topics and interests. The academic year saw the inception of our Weekly Newsletter as means to stay close to all our PhD family members. When enjoying nice weather, we hosted outdoor gatherings following all safety protocols and health recommendations. All in, this year has been a learning curve. Mitigating the effects of isolation and fostering community from our homes, we’ve come to value any occasion to be close together, either virtually or in person.