Students in Georgia Tech's College of Architecture this week challenged their faculty members to a contest in which each instructor carved a "self interpretation" -- using a pumpkin as their medium.

Georgia Tech's Inaugural Pumpkin Carving Contest -- sponsored by members of the American Institute of Architecture Students -- was held 12-2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2002 in the College of Architecture's courtyard, 247 Fourth Street NW.

Faculty members had an hour and 15 minutes to carve their pumpkin beginning Wednesday at noon. Each pumpkin carver was encouraged to bring extra props to add more character to their self-interpretations.

Once finished, the instructors "defended" their self-interpreations in a short presentation before being judged by their students.

The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is a national organization that promotes excellence in architectural education and practice plus community awareness and participation among its members. The Georgia Tech chapter of AIAS actively organizes seminars, tours and special events enhancing student life as part of the Institute's Architecture Program.

For more information on the AIAS, contact Assistant Professor Wanda Ward Dye, faculty adviser for the American Institute of Architecture Students, (404) 385-1274 or wanda.dye@arch.gatech.edu.