What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s a wonderful day celebrating all women and the fight for gender equality.

What woman inspires you and why?

My mother. Her never-ending love, strength, and wisdom, despite having a very hard childhood. She raised three daughters that are best friends and know how to love.

What highlights and challenges have you faced in your career?

I have moved from Romania to Germany, then Germany to the United States. Had to learn both German and English from scratch and work in different cultures. Especially the technical language and different standards were a challenge every time. At some point my career moved also towards Academia and grew in that direction ever since. This is for sure my favorite highlight.

What’s something interesting you’re currently working on? Personal or professional.

I just became the Head of Architecture Programs at NewSchool of Architecture & Design in San Diego. Working with students and faculty on further enhancing our program and modeling the behavior we want to see in the world of design and construction is my ongoing passion.

What do you believe will be the biggest challenge for the next generation of female architects, designers, and construction managers?

The profession is more and more friendly and inclusive to women. The only challenges I can see now can just arise if we forget to believe in ourselves. It may still remain hard for some, but I think today the possibilities are endless.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career to date?

Fight ambivalence.

Why should women and girls pursue a career in the architecture, design, or construction management industry? Why is it important to encourage women and girls?

If it’s a calling, pursue it! It’s important to encourage them, if they need to remember that women can do any job they want or have an affinity for. More specifically, all these jobs, Architect, Designer, or Construction Manager offer satisfying careers with creative outputs and gratifying team work.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Trust with care.

What has you most excited about the future?

My son.

On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?

You are the Architect of your success.