Lea Mitchem

Lea Mitchem
Hometown: Apex, NC
Bachelor of Architecture
2021

How did you become interested in architecture?
Growing up my mother was a draftsman, so I have always been surrounded by building plans and layouts. My childhood was mainly playing with Legos and Lincoln Logs which then matured into Sims and Minecraft. I have always enjoyed creating spaces and imagining how people would feel and interact while being in them.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
I am currently taking a small detour from Architecture as I am enlisted in the Navy NUPOC program (Nuclear Propulsion). Afterward, I would still like to design spaces that bring the community together and gives opportunities for insightful interactions. 

What is your favorite thing about UNC Charlotte, the College of Arts + Architecture, or the School of Architecture?
I enjoy the studio culture and the community we have created. I feel like you just can’t get these types of friendships and this type of community in other majors. 

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
Even when I’m not in class, I still like to create things. Baking, painting, drawing, knitting, you name it. I also like to binge watch tv shows and video games.