Howdy! I’m Adam, a fourth-year architecture student at the University of Notre Dame with a passion for building cities that uplift the human spirit. I’m especially focused on biophilic urbanism, trauma-informed design, spatial equity, and how architecture can restore dignity, healing, and joy in communities that have long been overlooked. I’m currently walking from New York City to Washington, D.C. as part of a research and documentary project called Rooted Cities, where I explore how neighborhood environments affect well-being and how simple design ideas can bring life, shade, and beauty back to disinvested places.

Over the past few years, I’ve lived and studied around the world: I spent a full year in Rome exploring classical design and how cities evolve over time; I conducted sustainability research in Singapore and Japan; and I lived and volunteered in northern Uganda, working with youth and learning about resilience in a vastly different built environment. These experiences, along with my background growing up in Kentucky, shape how I see the world—with empathy, curiosity, and a desire to listen closely before offering any solutions.

Outside of my academic and research life, I love fruitful conversation, journaling, themed entertainment design, and sharing food with others. I’ve worked everywhere from engineering floors to community centers and film studios. I’m always learning, always curious, and shaped by my faith and Christian values. I try to live intentionally, with gratitude, humor, and humility, and I’m here not just to find a couch, but to connect with the heartbeat of the neighborhoods I walk through.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’m currently walking from New York City to Washington, D.C. as part of a 30-day research and documentary project called Rooted Cities, which explores how urban design can better serve marginalized communities. This walk is my way of understanding space at the human scale, block by block, while listening to the stories of residents whose neighborhoods have been shaped by disinvestment.

I’m using Couchsurfing to connect with locals, not just for a place to sleep, but to understand the soul of each neighborhood better. Every conversation, every backyard, every bit of hospitality adds depth to this journey. If you’re open to hosting or even just chatting for a bit, I’d be incredibly grateful to share more about the projec and learn about your corner of the city.

Interests

Traveling,

• socializing
• soccer
• games

Music, Movies, and Books

Indie, Folk, Pop, Country, Spanish, Classical Music!
Interstellar Movie!
Cloud Cuckoo Land Book!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I studied abroad in Rome for a year!

Teach, Learn, Share

I can share insights about architecture, urban design, and how nature can be woven into cities to create healthier, more dignified environments, especially in communities that have been historically overlooked. I also love talking about food, sports, politics, social teaching, sustainable design, and what it’s like to study abroad!

I’m here to learn how people see and feel their own neighborhoods. I want to understand what makes a place feel like home, or what prevents it from feeling that way. Your stories, your perspective on the city, and your daily rhythms help me see the built world more clearly.

I can share good conversation, intentional listening, and reflections from my walk. Whether you’re curious about what different cities are doing to improve neighborhoods or just want to talk about life, I’ll meet you where you are, with openness and respect.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I travel light but carry a deep sense of gratitude. I’m happy to share good conversation, stories from my walk, a handwritten thank-you note, and any help you might need around the house. Whether it’s listening, cleaning up, or simply being a respectful guest, I aim to leave your space a little better than I found it, and hopefully leave you with something meaningful in return.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Qatar, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Uganda, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Italy, Singapore, Uganda, United States