What is your name, current location, and current occupation?
I'm Wanda Lau, editorial director of two publications: LEDs Magazine and Smart Buildings Technology. I'm currently based in Washington, DC.
What was your affiliation with MIT?
I earned my S.M. Building Technology at MIT in 2006.
What was your thesis title, if you completed one?
"Equilibrium Analysis of Masonry Domes," advised by John Ochsendorf.
What are you doing today?
After spending more than a decade at Architect magazine, where I was most recently the executive editor, I am getting used to being in a new role again. I am grateful to have found a career that I enjoy, contributes productively (I hope!) to the design profession, and is flexible enough that I can spend quality time with my family every day. I also photograph individuals and families on the side. As a first-generation college graduate whose parents worked 12-hour days, seven days a week just to make ends meet, I don't take anything for granted.
How did your time at MIT affect your career path?
MIT brings together brilliance, ingenuity, and creativity in all forms and fields imaginable. The institution's storied history of cross-disciplinary collaboration assured me that studying engineering and photography while writing for the graduate student magazine could somehow prove fruitful.
What is advice you would give to a new alum coming out of MIT?
Be honest about your goals in life, which will change with time so check in with yourself regularly. Wield your MIT credentials thoughtfully, strategically, and with humility. Network.
How can fellow alums reach you if they want to speak further?
Connect with me via LinkedIn.