As Rice University prepares to celebrate the Class of 2025 at commencement May 9-10, Rice News is spotlighting a series of standout seniors.
Charlotte Cohen, a fifth-year undergraduate at Rice’s School of Architecture, has spent her college career building more than just models — she’s been laying the groundwork for a career rooted in empathy, collaboration and cultural impact.
Originally from Southern California, Cohen said she is eager to begin working on community-focused and cultural design projects after graduation with a long-term goal of addressing affordable housing.
“What inspires me about architecture is having an investment in a design that can bridge people together,” she said.
Throughout her time at Rice, Cohen has embraced a wide array of travel and research opportunities that have shaped her perspective. She praised the deep sense of community within her class.
“We’re an incredibly close cohort,” she said. “We help each other with everything — from learning new software to sharing design feedback. Not only have the faculty been supportive, but the student body itself is full of generosity and collaboration.”
As she prepares to leave Rice, Cohen reflects on the experience with gratitude: “Rice has given us an incredible array of travel experiences, professional development and collaborative opportunities. It’s been everything I hoped architecture school would be.”