Salma Rodriguez
Scholar since:
2025-04-11
Scholarship received:
Next Generation Undergraduate Scholarship
Education:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Hometown:
El Paso, TX
Salma Rodriguez is a Master of Architecture student at MIT and a proud border native from Ciudad Juárez and El Paso. Growing up along the U.S.–Mexico border has shaped her interest in architecture and her belief that design can help create more welcoming and inclusive communities. At MIT, Salma has continued to explore architecture beyond designing buildings, learning how it can connect to social, cultural, environmental, and community issues.
As an AIA Next Generation Scholarship recipient, Salma is currently completing a summer internship with DAHLIN Architecture in Austin, Texas, where she is gaining professional experience and growing her interest in affordable and community-centered housing. She also had the opportunity to attend the AIA26 Conference through the Next Generation Scholarship, where she connected with and learned from people across the architecture community.
This fall, Salma will begin mentoring students from her undergraduate institution through the IN/BORDER program. She hopes to support students as they explore their own paths in architecture. Through her education, work, and mentorship, Salma hopes to continue learning how architecture can better respond to the needs of different communities and create spaces where people feel welcome and connected.
As an AIA Next Generation Scholarship recipient, Salma is currently completing a summer internship with DAHLIN Architecture in Austin, Texas, where she is gaining professional experience and growing her interest in affordable and community-centered housing. She also had the opportunity to attend the AIA26 Conference through the Next Generation Scholarship, where she connected with and learned from people across the architecture community.
This fall, Salma will begin mentoring students from her undergraduate institution through the IN/BORDER program. She hopes to support students as they explore their own paths in architecture. Through her education, work, and mentorship, Salma hopes to continue learning how architecture can better respond to the needs of different communities and create spaces where people feel welcome and connected.