PERRYSBURG — Emelisa Paredes is studying computer-aided design at Penta Career Center with the goal of becoming an architect.

She said she started loving architecture in the eighth grade after job shadowing an architect at Bowling Green State University.

“He showed me the ropes,” Paredes said. “That just interested me so much, especially when I visited one of the buildings (being constructed) at BGSU.

“Ever since then, I was like, this is something that really interests me.”

Paredes looked at the programs offered at Penta, and architecture was taught – until she enrolled as a junior. The new CAD teacher told her he was going to teach the mechanical side of the program instead.

Paredes used the skills learned on CAD software to create an updated map for Webster Township Cemetery.

She said a township employee approached the career center and explained they wanted to add a kiosk to the middle of the cemetery that will show where each plot is located.

“They can use the map to figure out where their loved one is and its easier,” Paredes said.

The CAD class got the project, and she was asked to do it.

Paredes said they wanted a CAD file that can be transferred to their kiosk.

“I couldn’t have done it without my other classmates. They ended up helping me with the software.”

The township provided the blueprints. The plots are listed by numbers.

“I ended up staying (at Penta) because the programs that we use are so helpful because an architect uses the software we use,” Paredes said.

She took construction and electricity classes as a junior to get insight into what actually goes into a building.

Her teacher prompted Paredes to study Revit, a modelling software for architects, on her own as a senior.

“Penta gave me the opportunity to get a head start to my career, a better chance of being separated from other students going to college,” she said. “Penta has given me all of the opportunities possible.”

Paredes plans to study architecture and minor in interior design at BGSU.

Her parents, Javier and Lorenza Paredes, are from the area of Guanajuato in central Mexico, and the family travels home every year to remember their Spanish culture.

When she visits, Paredes finds herself staring at buildings trying to figure out how they were made, she said.

“Once I’m in Mexico I see buildings, there are so many new buildings that are colorful.”

She thought “how cool would it be to bring a little bit of that color to our buildings.”

Paredes said she would love to visit other countries, but her goal is to discover more of Mexico.

Her ultimate goal with her degree is to introduce some of her Mexican culture in her designs.

“I want to see buildings with culture.”

She has been a four-year soccer player and participates in the Key Club at Eastwood High School.

At Penta, Paredes is a member of SkillsUSA.

She works at Chili’s in Rossford, and for her brother’s landscaping business during the summer.