Elie is a second-year graduating MLA student from Knoxville, TN. She holds an undergraduate degree in Environmental Design from Auburn University. With her background, Elie was able to participate in the 2-Year Advanced track to earn her MLA.
What was your undergraduate degree and how did it influence your decision to pursue a MLA?
For my undergraduate degree, I studied Environmental Design at Auburn University. This program was a great dip in the pool of general design, and we were able to get a taste of many disciplines. Originally, I was interested in architecture but decided I enjoyed the company of landscape architects much more, haha! The program was very speculative and multi-scale. That way of thinking was a natural precursor to my time in the MLA.
What will you miss about Knoxville?
As a Knoxville native, I will definitely miss my family and friends when I make my way to another city. Knoxville is such a great place with lots of memories for me.
What has been your most unique experience in the program?
My most unique experiences in the MLA program have definitely been attending the ASLA Conference both years. In 2025, we got to see New Orleans, and this year we were in Los Angeles! These trips have been some really inspiring outings. Each time, I have come home feeling really close with my classmates and generally more excited and fired up about landscapes and the profession!
Did you have an internship or externship experience? What did you learn from it?
Following my time at Auburn, I worked at a residential firm in Knoxville called Hedstrom Landscape Architecture for about a year. My time there really inspired me to go for the MLA in the first place. Fast forward to the summer of 2026, I was able to continue my professional development by interning with Hawkins Partners in Nashville, TN. I was grateful to expand my knowledge and venture into more commercial work. Both of these experiences were amazing and have prepared me for the firm life!
What is the last book you read?
I just finished up “Whistler” by Ann Patchett. I’m not usually up to date on authors, but Ann lives in Nashville and has a bookstore there. Naturally, I had to read her newest book! It was so great–definitely recommend. I don’t always have time during the school year to read, so this was a treat!