Morgan Pettit first came to Southern Utah University from Bluffdale, Utah as a young girl to see her aunt graduate. She loved the school then just as much as she loves it now in her fourth year as a student.
“Being here has helped me break out of my shell and experience living on my own.”
Fascinated by her grandparents’ historic brick home in Panguitch, Pettit decided to study engineering technology with an emphasis in civil and architectural engineering.
She’s designed various kinds of homes from complex, maximalist abodes to low-income, budget housing. She has developed a taste for soft shapes, bay windows and historical architecture.
Although the engineering field has been historically male-dominated, there is a steady increase in female engineers, and Pettit plans to be a part of that movement.
After seeing how people around her struggle to find affordable housing, Pettit’s career aspirations involve helping people by providing housing within their means.
“I hate seeing how much of our population is homeless,” said Pettit. “They don’t have the resources to get into a safe space, and sometimes even safe spaces available to them aren’t very safe.”
Pettit wants voices to be heard, and says people need to speak up, and be loud about the causes important to them because that’s how change happens.
Pettit’s grandmother drilled a piece of advice into her: “Don’t let what you’re doing define you.”
One way Pettit embodies this advice is through her wardrobe. She explained how people are often surprised when they find out what career path she’s chosen.
“I really like to get dressed up, and show myself and be there,” said Pettit.
Her personal fashion sense is influenced by nature, as Earth tones make her feel more connected to the natural world around her. She feels most herself when dressed in artistic, creative clothing, most of which she finds at thrift stores.
“All of my friends have different styles, and I absolutely love it, because that’s how I see them, and it’s how everyone else sees them.”
At the end of the day, Pettit strives to make those around her feel loved and happy, spreading joy in the little things.
