Washingtonville Middle School students get an inside look at architecture

Washingtonville Middle School students in Raquel Reyes’ technology class recently had the opportunity to step into the world of architecture as they welcomed a special guest to their classroom. 

SUNY Orange Architecture Professor Charles Passarotti visited to share insights into the field of architecture, including the creative possibilities within the profession and the many pathways students can pursue if they choose this career path. 

Professor Passarotti introduced students to the foundations of architectural design, walking them through how buildings move from concept to construction. From listening to client needs and sketching early ideas to creating detailed drawings, building models and overseeing construction, students gained a deeper understanding of the design process.

The presentation also highlighted the wide range of careers connected to architecture, including traditional architects, landscape architects, interior designers, urban planners and Building Information Modeling (BIM) managers who organize complex digital building models.

Throughout the visit, students remained highly engaged, asking thoughtful, higher-order questions that reflected both curiosity and critical thinking.

When discussing famous structures, Professor Passarotti quizzed students on well-known landmarks. After identifying Gustave Eiffel as the designer of the Eiffel Tower, one student, Vinny Caridi, impressed the group by correctly naming another structure Mr. Eiffel contributed to — the Statue of Liberty!

Other students explored the field’s many specialties. Tara Burton asked whether designing cruise ships falls under architecture, prompting a discussion about naval architecture, while Maddie Graziano inquired about the symbols and technical drawings architects use to communicate designs. Vivian Passarotti, daughter of the guest speaker, also raised questions about the complexities of coordinating with multiple contractors on large projects.

Students were especially excited to view examples of college-level architectural work, including handmade models and authentic floor plans, offering early exposure to postsecondary expectations and creative possibilities within the field.

“Professor Passarotti delivered an exceptionally engaging and informative presentation,” Ms. Reyes said. “He introduced students to the field of architecture, discussed potential future pathways and highlighted notable structures within the profession. The inclusion of photos from his own work and projects produced by the architecture studio at SUNY Orange helped students make a meaningful connection between their interests today and the opportunities available to them in the future.”

The visit drew interest from across the building, with Assistant Principal Steven Nyarady and Technology teacher Jayson Escalera stopping by to listen, observe and join the conversation.

Experiences like this help students see how classroom learning connects to real careers, while highlighting architecture’s broader impact, from providing protection and safety to building community spaces and expressing cultural identity through design.

By the end of the session, it was clear that Washingtonville students were not only inspired by what they learned, but eager to keep building on their curiosity about the world around them — one structure at a time.