You can support students like Hannah and Payton by making a gift to the UNL Grenville K. Yuill Memorial Masters of Architectural Engineering Scholarship Fund today.
As a graduate student studying architectural engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Hannah Serhan knew pursuing her master’s degree would be difficult. Between advanced coursework and her year-long team design capstone project, the time commitment alone felt overwhelming.
That is why receiving support through the UNL Grenville K. Yuill Memorial Masters of Architectural Engineering Scholarship Fund made an immediate difference for her.
“It’s taken a huge weight off my shoulders,” Serhan said. “Not having to stress about paying for school has allowed me to focus more on my classes and the things I actually enjoy learning.”
That shift in focus allowed her to fully invest in her capstone experience, which is one of the most intensive parts of the program. Her team recently placed first in an international competition, an achievement she credits in part to having the time and flexibility to dedicate to the project.
“Because I am not constantly worried about working to pay for school, I have been able to really focus on my team project,” Serhan said.
Serhan was drawn to UNL’s architectural engineering program for its strong industry connections and hands-on opportunities, including the ability to work while completing her degree. Now specializing in lighting design, she hopes to create spaces that are not only functional but also thoughtful and inclusive.
“I want to design environments that actually support people,” Serhan said, “not just meet technical requirements.”
Like Serhan, Payton Easley is also in her fifth year of the program, completing her master’s degree while focusing on electrical and lighting systems.
When she first chose architectural engineering, she was looking for an opportunity to explore multiple disciplines before committing to one path.
At UNL, Easley found exactly that. As an out-of-state student, the financial reality of pursuing her degree was always top of mind until donor support changed that.
“It is a big relief to not have to constantly worry about financial struggles,” said Easley, who also received a scholarship through the fund. “It’s helped me focus on school instead of stressing about money.”
With that relief came the ability to be more present not just academically but also within the broader college experience.
“It allowed me to get involved in campus events, professional development and spend more time with classmates,” Easley said. “If I did not have this support, I would probably be working a lot more and missing out on those opportunities.”
For both students, the impact of scholarship goes beyond financial support. It has given them the time, confidence and space to fully commit to their education.
“It has boosted my confidence and made my goals feel more realistic,” Serhan said.
As they look ahead, both are focused on making meaningful contributions to their field, whether through designing more inclusive environments or continuing to grow professionally and pursue licensure.
Their paths may look different, but they share the impact of donor support.
“Their support is helping me move closer to my goals,” Easley said. “I do not think donors always realize how many students are impacted, but it is a lot.”
