AUBURN, Ala. – A handful of Auburn equestrian members are using the summer to gain valuable experiences not only in their area of study, but also for life whether they stay in the United States or travel abroad!
Soon-to-be junior Charlotte McLaughlin went back home to Ottawa, interning with CSV Architects! The building sciences major worked with construction administration, while also taking time out of her busy schedule to ride.
Q: Where are you spending your summer and what is your role?
A: “I am spending my summer working for CSV Architects, a firm specializing in sustainable design of institutional, commercial, and multi-unit residential projects. I'm working as a summer intern doing project coordination and aiding with the construction administration aspect of projects.”
Q: What made you interested in this internship?
A: “I am interested in both architecture and construction and I recognized the importance of having a background and understanding of architecture to make me a more well-rounded and knowledgeable contractor. This led me to seek out an internship with CSV, since I would be able to learn more about the design phase of projects and sustainable building while applying the skills and knowledge I have gained thus far in building science.”
Q: How did Auburn help you prepare for this internship?
A: “This past year, I was a leader for Auburn Athletics' Connect program, where upperclassmen mentor a group of freshmen, helping them integrate into the student-athlete life at Auburn. This program has taught me strong leadership and collaboration skills. Additionally, Auburn's building science program prepared me with the necessary knowledge to work with architects but with a specific focus on the construction phase of projects.”
Q: What made you interested in the area of study you are pursuing at Auburn?
A: “My father has been in the construction industry since before I was born, and growing up around our family business has developed my keen interest and passion for it. When I first came to Auburn, I was initially an architecture major, but I made the switch to building science shortly after.”
Q: What are your plans after you graduate?
A: “After I graduate from Auburn's building science program, I hope to move to London and expand my knowledge, specifically in blast and ballistic mitigation and construction systems. London is a central hub for this industry, offering cutting-edge technology and expertise in safeguarding against threats. I have always wanted to live abroad, making this a great location to further my career. After this, I plan to return to Canada and pursue a career as a project manager within my family businesses, Terlin Construction and Infrasecure.”
Q: How have you been able to balance school and be a successful student-athlete?
A: “When I first came to school, it took me some time to settle into the busy schedule that student-athletes have to balance. There was a trial-and-error period to find time between classes and team activities to do schoolwork and to learn when I was most productive. Scheduling my classes to optimize my morning study time has been helpful since that is when I work most effectively. The biggest lesson I have learned thus far is to focus on one thing at a time. When I am in class, that is my priority, and when I head to practice, I am fully engaged there. Being a student-athlete is difficult, and it sometimes feels like you are being stretched thin, so being present and shifting ‘work’ modes helps me maintain my tunnel vision on the task at hand.”