Laghima Rustagi, a determined young architect hailing from Delhi, has always viewed the built environment as a canvas for both creativity and technical precision. Her academic path is a powerful testament to her vision, culminating in highly sought-after admission offers from elite institutions, including the University of Michigan, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU).
Out of these incredible opportunities, Laghima has chosen CMU’s prestigious Master’s in Construction Management—a perfect fit for her ambition to seamlessly merge visionary design with precise execution. This milestone is further cemented by the Architecture Merit Scholarship awarded by CMU, a clear recognition of her remarkable promise in shaping the future of architecture.
Building Expertise, Brick by Brick
Laghima’s architectural foundations were laid at the MBS School of Planning and Architecture in New Delhi. Her professional growth was intentional and focused: during her internship at AND Studio, she gained practical grounding in project scheduling and budgeting (Bill of Quantities). She later honed her problem-solving skills at Plural Design Consultants Pvt. Ltd., where she was instrumental in the site planning for the challenging hilltop Chail Resort. This work required close collaboration with engineering teams, forcing her to expertly balance aesthetic vision with safety and structural reality.
Inspired by the fluid, convention-defying forms of Zaha Hadid, Laghima recognized the need to specialize in execution to bring such grand visions to life. Her commitment to depth is also reflected in her research, where she authored two papers published in respected international journals—one exploring modular construction for sustainable urban housing, and the other evaluating future-ready mixed-use high-rise typologies.
The Power of Guided Focus
Laghima’s achievements were amplified by strategic guidance. Her decision to publish her research papers in international journals, which significantly strengthened her profile and earned her invitations to editorial boards, was a direct result of advice she received.
Reflecting on this critical step, Laghima shared: “One of the most valuable guidance I received from my counselors at EZScholar was to publish my research papers in renowned international journals, which significantly strengthened my profile.”
Laghima’s journey emphasizes that true excellence requires dedication not only to technical skill but also to community. Her time spent volunteering at the Oath Foundation, caring for others, grounded her, underscoring the vital role of empathy in shaping spaces that uplift individuals and communities.
Precision in Preparation
The path to international study also demanded rigorous test readiness. Laghima credits the customized support she received for her success in the IELTS exam: “IELTS preparation was a critical part of my journey, and EZScholar delivered. My mentor, Mr Aashay, crafted a personalized study plan that identified my strengths and weaknesses and helped me maximize my score. The mock exams were spot-on and prepared me thoroughly for the real test.”
Laghima’s story is a compelling blueprint for aspiring designers everywhere—one defined by creativity, persistence, and an unwavering desire to grow. As she prepares to make her mark on the world of construction management at Carnegie Mellon, she stands as an inspiring reminder: with passion, dedication, and the right guidance, the pathways to extraordinary opportunities are built, not found.