Name: Julia Heywood
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: Bellingham, WA
Julia Heywood, a junior at Gonzaga University, is making waves in more ways than one. Though she doesn’t see herself as an artist, her mural design was chosen for the Bollier Center’s High Bay Lab, a special space for civil engineering students. This was no small feat; it was selected by a six-member jury panel.
Her journey at Gonzaga began when she visited her older brother, a proud alum. Captivated by the campus, Julia decided to pursue civil engineering at a place that felt like home. “Gonzaga checked all my boxes,” she says. “I wanted a small school with a strong engineering program, close to home.”
Civil engineering combines Julia’s passions for math, the environment, and transportation. When the opportunity to design a mural came up, she embraced it, eager to reflect her love for Gonzaga and Spokane. “I thought it would be fun,” she shares, despite not being an art enthusiast.
Using a drawing app on her iPad, Julia brought her vision to life. She included famous Spokane landmarks and symbols of Gonzaga’s Jesuit values, as well as elements representing the six branches of civil engineering. “It was easier to do it digitally,” she explains. “I could change things without starting over.”
Every Wednesday, students in Professor Jennifer Seo’s classes come together to paint the mural. It will be unveiled in Spring 2026, celebrating both Julia’s creativity and the civil engineering program. “I never imagined they’d pick my design,” Julia admits. “I’m just grateful to honor Gonzaga’s mission.”
After graduating, she aims to work as a transportation engineer for the Washington State Department of Transportation. Julia hopes to help with projects in her northwest home. Reflecting on her time at Gonzaga, she states, “How has it not prepared me?” She’s grown significantly, developing not just professionally but personally. “I’ve gained confidence and formed lasting relationships,” she adds.
Julia’s journey highlights a growing trend among students who see the importance of blending technical fields with creative expression. This approach not only enriches their education but also honors community and culture, showing that engineers can be artists too.
For more about students like Julia and their inspiring stories, check out additional profiles from Gonzaga University. You can find more insights into the importance of arts in engineering from sources like the Engineered Artistry.
Source link
Senior Spotlight Julia Heywood Bridges Gaps
