Trev Golubski graduated from Newton High School in May 2021 before going on to Oklahoma State University and graduating with a Bachelors degree in Architecture. He now lives in Kansas City and has joined DLR group as a designer in their sports sector.

- Every architecture student has that one project they become known for. Which project are you most proud of, and what made it so.

The project I'm most proud of wasn't part of my coursework. During my final winter break as a student, I was hired to create conceptual renderings for a proposed on-campus hockey arena district, with just 40 hours to complete the project. It stands out because it was my first opportunity to combine my passion for sports with architecture and visualization. Working on a real project with a public audience confirmed that sports design was the career I wanted to pursue—something I now get to do every day. After sharing the final renderings online, the project went viral for several months, reaching hundreds of thousands of people. News outlets, companies, and major social media accounts reached out to feature the work and learn more about the project. Seeing that level of engagement reinforced how impactful architectural visualization can be and made this project one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

- Architecture is about balancing creativity with practicality. What was the biggest challenge you faced during your coursework, and what did it teach you as a designer?

The biggest challenge for me was learning when to stop. Whether it was a studio project, studying, or any assignment, I always wanted to keep refining my work. As designers, we often strive for perfection, but I learned that perfection is rarely achievable. Over time, I realized that knowing when a design has effectively met its goals is just as important as pushing it further. That lesson taught me to balance attention to detail with time management and helped me become a more efficient and confident designer.

- How has studying architecture changed the way you look at buildings, neighborhoods, or even everyday spaces?

Absolutely. One of my very first professors told us, “Put your phone away as much as you can and embrace the spaces and world you are experiencing.” That advice has stayed with me throughout my education and career. Since then, I’ve become much more aware of my surroundings, constantly looking at the details of the places I visit. Whether in a major city or an everyday environment. I find myself analyzing what works, what I enjoy, and what I might have approached differently as a designer. Studying architecture has taught me to experience spaces more intentionally and appreciate the thought behind the environments we interact with every day.

- Now that you've graduated, what kind of architecture or design work are you most excited to pursue, and what impact do you hope your work will have?

It has always been my dream to work on sports facilities and stadiums, and I’ve been fortunate enough to have that opportunity in my very first job out of college. Knowing that I get to contribute to some of the best stadiums in the world and most advanced athletic facilities is truly an honor. While a designer’s impact often goes unnoticed, I find meaning in knowing that the spaces I help create can influence people in powerful ways. These environments have the ability to build stronger team cultures, bring communities together, and give fans a place to escape from everyday life—even if just for a few hours—and connect with the people and moments around them. Being able to contribute to those experiences is what makes this work so rewarding.

- Looking back at the student who started the program a few years ago, what advice would you give yourself now?

The biggest advice I would give myself is not to get caught up in the little things. One exam, project, or grade is not going to define who you are or determine where you end up. The lessons you learn along the way and the meaningful connections you build will take you much further than trying to do everything perfectly the first time. Architecture is a process of growth, and every challenge helps shape you into a better designer and person. At the end of the day, you only go as far as you are willing to work for, so stay dedicated to what you love, embrace the journey, and trust that the effort you put in will create opportunities in the future.

Do you know a graduate of Newton High School who should be featured? Email carly.stavola@usd373.org - please include a graduation year and any contact info you are aware of.