Scheba Derogene was searching for a major that combined art and science while providing an opportunity for her to create something unique. She found her way to the landscape architecture (LA) program in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (LA) and knew after several LA classes that she had a home in the College and with the students in the UConn student chapter of the ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects). She’s interested in working at the municipal level, but her dream job is to own a multidisciplinary firm that includes landscape architecture, architecture, engineering and surveying. Read more about her experiences as a UConn student.
What attracted you to the UConn College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources?
What attracted me to the College of Ag was the fact that it was a smaller school with the program of landscape architecture. The program is extremely small so I’m able to form genuine relationships with my professors.
Why did you choose your particular major?
I started off as a civil engineering major, but I felt that the school was not the right fit for me. My interests, my passion, and my skills had evolved while I was pursuing the engineering degree. Trying to understand college in itself was a challenge, and being an underrepresented minority female in STEM created an even bigger obstacle. Being in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resource has allowed me to reflect on my purpose and intent for earning a degree, which coincide with my career aspirations and goals.
Which one of your UConn activities, internships or jobs was the most memorable? Why?
The internship I had as a sophomore at Studer Design Associates was definitely the most memorable experience I’ve had. It gave me a taste of being a professional. It allowed me to appreciate the creativity and freedom I currently have at UConn. Here, I can ask as many questions as I’d like, and I won’t feel weird about it. The internship taught me to appreciate UConn more.
Name two other experiences that have enriched your studies.
Study Abroad summer 2019. One of the best opportunities I’ve ever had in a lifetime was being able to travel to six countries in one summer. The trip made me come out of my social comfort zone. I was used to being with my parents on vacations and family trips, so I was lucky to be going abroad with a friend, and even then, to some extent, I still was on my own because there’s nothing like family. I became homesick, and I think we all need to go through homesickness at least once, just so we can appreciate our loved ones.
LABash 2019: LABash is a conference held for landscape architecture students. I had the opportunity to go to the city of Athens in Georgia, and that was by far one of my favorite memories at UConn. Being with the other students, networking, learning about the profession and learning about my classmates was enlightening. It was an experience we needed to experience together.
What has been the biggest challenge in your UConn career?
The biggest challenge in my UConn career has been the act of rushing things. UConn has its ways of making students want to be the best of the best. Since that’s most of our goals as UConn students, trying to stay sane in the midst of it all, and remembering that I can only take so much is really important. It’s such a challenge trying not to feel guilty for taking breaks once in a while too.
When do you expect to graduate? What then?
I’m graduating May 2020 and I’m excited and petrified. I’m hopeful that I’ll find a job that is flexible in all aspects. I know the transition from college life to real life will be hard.
Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
I’m a campus change student from UConn Stamford. I really enjoy my spin class and I’d like to get into off-road bike racing. And one thing I feel strongly about is having a family and being a role model for my future children.
