Elite LABNNY Member Katherine Serrano Sosa: Latina Architect Inspiring the Next Generation with Rooted Architecture Studio
In the vibrant landscape of New York's architecture scene, Katherine Serrano Sosa stands as a testament to perseverance, cultural pride, and professional excellence. As a licensed architect in both New York and New Jersey, Katherine's journey from El Salvador to becoming a prominent figure in the architectural community exemplifies the American dream while maintaining strong ties to her heritage.
A Foundation Built on Determination
Arriving in the United States at age seven, Katherine laid the groundwork for her future success through education and dedication. Her academic journey led her to the prestigious Spitzer School of Architecture in the Macaulay Honors College at CCNY, where she graduated in 2016. By 2019, she had achieved a significant milestone by becoming licensed in New York, marking the beginning of what would become a remarkable career in architecture.
Building More Than Structures
With over nine years of experience, Katherine's portfolio spans various projects across different scales and phases. However, her impact extends far beyond the buildings she designs. As the founder of Rooted Architecture Studio, she has created a platform that not only showcases exceptional architectural work but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring Latina professionals in the field.
Mentorship and Community Leadership
Katherine's commitment to uplifting others is evident in her various leadership roles:
● Mentor at Arquitina, supporting fellow Latinas through their architectural examination journey
● Board member of the Women in Architecture Committee at AIA Long Island
● Board of Directors member for the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce
● Committee member of the Latina Business Network of New York (LABNNY)
Her story has also been immortalized in "Latinas in Architecture and Allies Vol. II," where she joins 15 other architects in sharing their experiences and insights.
Balance and Growth
What sets Katherine apart is not just her professional achievements but her approach to personal and professional growth. She emphasizes the importance of:
● Maintaining strong boundaries while remaining flexible
● Planning ahead while being adaptable
● Making decisions aligned with personal values
● Prioritizing mental and physical health
Recent Milestones
2024 marks the third anniversary of Rooted Architecture Studio, a testament to Katherine's entrepreneurial spirit. Additionally, she recently sponsored her first scholarship, demonstrating her commitment to paying it forward and supporting the next generation of architects.
Words of Wisdom
For aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, Katherine emphasizes the importance of letting go of perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies. Her mantra? "Pour into yourself first before others to be your best self." She advocates for trial and error over inaction, understanding that growth comes from taking calculated risks.
Looking Forward
As Katherine continues to make her mark in the architectural world, she remains excited about future opportunities to share her story and knowledge with others. Her journey from El Salvador to becoming a successful architect and business owner in New York serves as an inspiration for many, especially within the Latina community.
Through her work, mentorship, and community involvement, Katherine Serrano Sosa is not just designing buildings – she's architecting opportunities for future generations of Latina professionals.