The SMPS Foundation, in partnership with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), provides financial assistance to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Made possible by generous donations, the SMPS Foundation Zinsmeyer Scholarship Program focuses on the fields of architecture, construction management, engineering, marketing, mass communications, and public relations. Recently, SMPS chatted with Jaden Adams, who attends Tuskegee University and is majoring in architecture. Jaden is one of 16 students who received a scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year.
What inspired you to apply for this scholarship? I applied for this scholarship because I saw it as a great opportunity to not only ease some of the financial pressures of college, but also to connect with a network of professionals who are passionate about building better communities. Knowing that the scholarship supports students in the architecture, engineering, construction (A/E/C) field made it feel like the perfect fit.
How has receiving this scholarship impacted your academic or personal journey? Receiving this scholarship has been a major blessing. It has allowed me to focus more on my coursework and less on how I was going to pay for it. It also affirmed that my hard work and goals are being recognized, which has kept me motivated to keep pushing forward.
What are your academic and career goals? My academic goal is to complete my degree in architecture at Tuskegee University and continue developing my design and technical skills. Career-wise, I want to become a licensed architect and eventually start my own firm that focuses on designing for underserved communities, creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring.
Have you faced any challenges in your educational journey, and if so, how have you overcome them? Yes, like many students, I’ve had moments where balancing academics, leadership roles, and financial stress was tough. I’ve overcome these challenges by staying organized, leaning on my support system, and reminding myself why I started this journey in the first place.
Can you share a school project you’re proud of and what, if anything, it has taught you? One project I’m especially proud of was a community center design we worked on in studio. The project focused on sustainability and social impact. It taught me how to really think through the needs of the people who would use the space—not just how it looks, but how it feels and functions for the community.
What sparked your interest in architecture, and how has that passion evolved since starting your studies? Growing up, I was always fascinated by how spaces influence our everyday lives. That curiosity turned into a passion once I started studying architecture and saw how design could directly impact people’s quality of life. Since then, my interest has evolved from simply admiring buildings to wanting to be a part of the process that shapes meaningful, inclusive spaces.
How do you hope your work as an architect will impact communities or the built environment? I want my work to be centered around equity and accessibility. I hope to design spaces that reflect and uplift the people who use them—especially in historically marginalized neighborhoods. My goal is to create environments that inspire, empower, and bring people together.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to future architects starting out in college today? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and put yourself out there. Architecture school can be intense, but it’s also full of opportunities. Build strong relationships, stay open to feedback, and always remember why you started. Your voice and vision matter.
