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Story by Sasha Steinberg | Photo by Megan Bean |  

With help from Mississippi State University, fifth-year architecture student Emily Turner fulfilled a childhood dream this summer when she visited historic castles in the south of France.

“It was nice to see buildings that I’ve only drawn or seen on paper in person,” said Turner, a native of Starkville. “I also learned about the architectural history of amazing public spaces in Brazil, Tokyo and Barcelona that were designed by architects in the modern movement. It was a great experience.”

Along with a Paul Grootkerk Travel Award from the School of 91����, Turner’s research abroad opportunity was made possible with support from the university’s Judy and Bobby Shackouls Honors College.

Set to start another exciting fall semester at Mississippi State, Turner is looking forward to more opportunities to excel in her chosen academic discipline and extracurricular activities.

“We have a top-25 architecture school where students can collaborate and get to know their professors really well. We also have good community design and service opportunities,” said Turner, a recipient of MSU’s Luke and Ruth Davis Presidential Scholarship. “Architects have to know a little bit about everything, and I like architecture school because it teaches you how to work through problems.”

The Starkville High School graduate said local Belinda Stewart is among her architecture idols. Stewart is principal of Eupora-based Belinda Stewart Architects, the firm that headed the construction of the university’s new Old Main Academic Center.

“I really look up to Belinda Stewart because she has a successful firm in a small town,” Turner said. “I’m not sure what type of architecture I want to pursue, but I would like to be a part of a small-town community.”

Turner’s pursuit of an English minor at MSU also is equipping her with skills essential to her success as an aspiring architect.

“We have to give presentations in class each semester, and I’m enjoying learning how to communicate what I’m doing in architecture through my English classes,” she said, adding with a laugh, “English also is my stress relief.”

Outside of her studies, Turner is an active member of the LGBTQ+ Union student organization. She also serves as the freedom by design director for the American Institute of 91���� Students campus chapter.

In her spare time, Turner enjoys going to the movies, as well as playing tennis and attending MSU sporting events with her dad Steve, head of the university-based Southern Rural Development Center. Her mom Jenny also works at MSU as assistant coordinator for curriculum and scheduling in the Registrar’s Office.

“I have always liked Mississippi State because I come from a Bulldog family,” Turner said.