After four years at West Virginia University, Alaira Hudson, an upcoming Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources landscape architecture graduate, is ready to step out into the world and use design as a “catalyst for positive change.”
Throughout her student experience, Hudson, a native of Thomas, West Virginia, has had the chance to serve several local communities through studio projects and learn more about the “transformative power of landscape architecture,” reshaping her commitment to design.
“My experience in the landscape architecture program has prepared me for the next stage of my career by exposing me to both the conceptual and practical aspects of the field. These projects challenged us to apply abstract design concepts to real-world contexts,” Hudson said. “I developed the ability to identify site-specific constraints and opportunities, and most importantly, to communicate complex design ideas to community members and stakeholders in ways that were accessible and inspiring.”
In the landscape architecture program at WVU, hands-on learning is a priority. For Hudson, one class that stands out in her mind is a natural systems class taught by Vaike Haas, associate professor of landscape architecture.
“We spent our time outside getting familiar with native plants and ecosystems, sketching and learning how to ‘read the forest’ to determine the health of a site by recognizing signs of disturbance, such as fire, logging, mining and invasive species,” Hudson recalled. “Every year, the natural systems students take a class camping trip, which was a great bonding experience as well as an awesome opportunity to take in the natural beauty of West Virginia.”
Aside from camping trips, Hudson also has had the opportunity to experience class trips to professional events, like the American Society of Landscape Architects annual conference. And collectively, Hudson feels these experiences have set her up for success as she takes the next step.
After graduation, Hudson will be joining the team at Longwood Gardens, a prominent public garden located outside of Philadelphia, as the yearlong display-design intern.
“I’m super excited to be involved in the research and development of their world-renowned displays alongside the incredible horticulture and design teams,” Hudson said. “During this internship, I'll have the opportunity to support the design team with CAD drawings, construction documents, visual aids and cross-departmental collaboration — all while gaining exposure to a wide variety of new plants and expanding my creative skills. I can’t wait to help bring these beautiful displays to life and add new, exciting projects to my portfolio!”
As Hudson wraps up her WVU experience, she’s had the chance to reflect on her time in Morgantown and consider what advice she might offer for incoming students.
“Don't forget about your hobbies! I know classes are demanding, but try to allocate time to take a break and focus on something you enjoy for fun. For me, I achieved this by adding a Printmaking minor to my studies,” Hudson shared. “Not only did practicing art enhance my academic rigor by strengthening critical thinking, problem solving and observation skills, it offered a restorative outlet for the mind and spirit, providing balance and clarity in an otherwise demanding schedule.”
And, specifically for the Davis College students, Hudson’s recommendation is to always pet Ryder and Betty when you see them.
The Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources envisions a world sustainably fed, clothed and sheltered. To learn more about the Davis College, visit davis.wvu.edu. Keep up with the latest updates and news on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube by following @WVUDavis.
-WVU-
hb/5/9/25
CONTACT: Hannah Booth
Assistant Director of Communications & Marketing
WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement
304-293-8701; hannah.booth@mail.wvu.edu