5/2/10 Dear Members of the Scholarship Committee: My name is Neil Werbelow and I am currently completing my first year in the Masters program at the University Of New Mexico School Of Architecture. I am a New Mexican native born in Socorro. I am a dual citizen of France and the United States. I like rock climbing, biking and socializing. My specialized academic interest is in architectural design. My ultimate goal is to obtain a postgraduate degree that will enable me to realize a rewarding professional career. I anticipate working in the public sector after I graduate in 2011. Academically, I believe my record is solid. My overall GPA in the graduate architecture program is 3.98 and I have been named to the Dean’s List every semester – at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

In my five years at UNM, I have been exposed to the excitement, challenge and reward associated with a career in architecture. In this year’s design class, four groups of three students were asked to design a net zero solar house. Our design was chosen and construction should begin this summer. I’m excited about the opportunity to actually participate in the building of one of my collaborative designs.

Of course, achievement doesn’t come without effort. I have experienced, first-hand, the commitment necessary to realize a professional career. On too many occasions I have worked throughout the night until dawn while putting the final touches on a design project. During my first year in graduate school, I was one of a handful of students that met all project deadlines. Indeed, perhaps my greatest strength is my diligence and determination. I trust I left a favorable impression upon both my peers and instructors. Often I reflect upon the path that led me to this point in my career. It seems that I've always been intrigued by different architectural styles. I have spent long periods of time in many cities characterized by distinctive architecture - cities such as Los Angeles, Stockholm, Barcelona, Montpellier, and Paris. Perhaps the bold, utterly remarkable architecture associated with these cities sparked and nurtured a subliminal appreciation. Likewise, I have always been cognizant of the interplay between architecture and the human spirit. Because UNM's curriculum is centered on universal design, I've been able to apply my appreciation of diverse cultures to my projects. As always, I hope to expand upon this theme as I go forward.

Throughout my studies at UNM, I have been encouraged to pursue projects that were representative of me as a person. I have grown both personally and professionally. Needless to say, I believe that my record indicates a level of knowledge, responsibility and maturity that will enable me to flourish during my final year of study at UNM. Only one familiar student concern remains - how will I fund my penultimate year in school? That said, I would greatly appreciate your consideration of my application and supporting portfolio. Sincerely, Neil Werbelow 907 Michigan Ave. Socorro, NM 87801 Tel.: (575) 418-5388 werbelow@unm.edu

Contact Information werbelow@unm.edu (575) 418 5388

Neil Rémi Werbelow

Permanent Address 907 Michigan Ave. Socorro, NM 87801

Education University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Current cumulative GPA: 3.98/4.00 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM B.A. in Architecture May 2009

Cumulative GPA: 3.48/4.00 New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Socorro, NM

Cumulative GPA: 3.03/4.00 Work Experience National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Socorro, NM May 2003 – August 2003Assistant Windows System Administrator, Supervisor Marie Glendenning

Familiar with many engineering software packages. Held a position of responsibility, and trusted with sensitive materials. Repaired computers, both hardware and software related problems.

Very Large Array, Plains of San Augustin, NM May 2004 – August 2004Safety Coordinator, Supervisor Marie Glendenning

Learned proper laboratory techniques along with safety courses. Cataloged and organized various chemicals Maintained clean and safe facilities

UNM Student Union Building, Albuquerque, NM August 2007 – December 2008Custodian, Supervisor Charles Jiron

Washed and waxed floors, vacuumed carpets, and cleaned bathrooms. Maintained a neat and clean facility.

Stage Door Bar and Grill, Socorro, NM May 2008 – August 2008 Dishwasher/Prep cook, Supervisor Terry Eilers June 2009 – August 2009

Ensured dishes are sanitized and available as needed. Completed assigned prep work and beautification duties.

New Mexico Tech Swim Center, Socorro, NM June 2009 – August 2009 Lifeguard, Supervisor Valerie Del Curto

Responsible for overseeing the safety of the users Carry out rescues and initiate other emergency action as necessary Trained and certified in water rescue

Skills Software: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, Acrobat, Illustrator, InDesign, AutoCAD, Google SketchUp, Maxwell Render, FormZ Techniques: Construction methods and materials, Bike maintenance and repair, Proficient at electrical circuitry. Miscellaneous: Fluent in French, Experienced Traveler

Leadership, Honors, and Activities Lottery Scholarship 2005-2009 UNM Scholars Scholarship 2005-2009 Frontier Scholarship 2009-Present Rock Climbing Club 2005-Present UNM Deans List 2006-2009 UNM Honors Program 2005-2006General Contractors Association Awards Honorable Mention FormZ Fabrication International Competition 2009