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  Investigating the Impact of Third Place Design on Student Social Connection and Well-being at the University of Arizona

  Bresnahan, Ella Grace; College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture; Apanovich, Nataliya (The University of Arizona., 2026)

  This study investigates how third spaces within the built environment influence social connection among students at the University of Arizona and how designed specifically impacts student well-being. Utilizing a qualitative data triangulation approach, research was conducted through an online Qualtrics survey of 19 students, three semi-structured in person interviews, and an observational case study of the sustainable ENR2 Slot Canyon courtyard. Results indicate that student’s primary motivation for visiting third spaces is to socialize with friends (84%), with a strong preference for design elements such as open floor plans (89%), convenient locations (84%), and flexible seating (74%). A central finding of the study was that despite the high environmental quality of an on-campus space like the ENR2 Slot Canyon, students mentally categorize these locations as “academic” environments, which limits their ability to function as true social third places. Consequently, students expressed a stronger social attachment to off-campus multifunctional spaces such as cafes and bars, which provide a greater sense of psychological escape and informal flexibility. The research concludes that universities must move beyond simple functional efficiency to create intentionally designed multifunctional spaces on campus that prioritize psychological comfort and a sense of openness to effectively support social health.
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  Hopi Dorm & Communal Form: How effective is the dorm's design for sociability & community?

  Pascual, Jai-Noel Angel; College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture; Apanovich, Nataliya; Wong, Kenny (The University of Arizona., 2026)

  There is a problem of sociability when it comes to homes and people staying in them. With more people in the United States spending more of their time in their homes more now than ever (Kaysen & Parlapiano, 2024), it is important to understand what factors improve the mental health for residents, and how housing design can play a role in this. At the same time, it is expected that there will be an additional 2.5 billion residents in cities by 2050. Our current system of housing development comes with a swath of negative effects,including destruction of natural habitats, less engagement with the local economy, and deteriorating social fabric. If we want to house this incoming population while not perpetuating our current pattern of suburban sprawl, we will have to create denser, multiunit developments with effective communal space. This is a design capstone that has a research portion utilizing a mixed methods, “e-POE” (electronic post-occupancy evaluation) methodology to learn the living experience of University of Arizona students who are residents in the communal dorm of Hopi. In addition to informing the redesign of communal spaces of the dorm, the findings reinforce ideas in the field of the built environment (and residential development) such as the importance of clear delineation between public, private, and semi-private space, visible corridors, and adequate space to encourage community and social interaction.
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  Hungry for change: Tackling food insecurity within college communities

  Vilardo, Joseph; College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture; Apanovich, Nataliya (The University of Arizona., 2026)

  Food insecurity is a growing issue among many college students who often struggle with consistent access to affordable and healthy food. The problem is compounded by rising living costs, limited transportation options, and inadequate food infrastructure. This study aims to understand the prevalence of food insecurity on the University of Arizona campus and the factors that contribute to it. Data were collected using a 15-question survey distributed to 30 college students, along with informal interviews that provided further qualitative insights into the student experience. The main findings show that food insecurity is moderately prevalent among students. It is mainly affected by a lack of transportation, high food costs, and a lack of knowledge about assistance programs. These findings show the importance of understanding and addressing food insecurity as a systemic issue within the institutions of higher education. By improving transportation, expanding affordable food options, and increasing resource awareness, universities can create more equitable campuses and improve overall student well-being and success. This study is significant because it contributes to the understanding of food insecurity on U.S. university campuses.
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  Reflections on NASA's Exploration Atmosphere 5 Mission

  Tresch, Trent; University of Arizona Center for Human Space Exploration (Center for Human Space Exploration - The University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ), 2025)
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  Oxygen Saturation Charts Aviation Masks and Pressure Suits

  Tresch, Trent; University of Arizona Center for Human Space Exploration (Center for Human Space Exploration - The University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ), 2026)

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