What are some of the rewarding aspects of your occupation and career?
Being an interior designer allows you to be creative while simultaneously benefiting a larger group of people. It is rewarding to know that my original ideas and concepts are appreciated by each client, most of whom are complete strangers.
What would you consider as your greatest achievement in this occupation?
My greatest achievement as an interior designer so far has been seeing two major fit-out projects completed since starting my first full-time job.
What did you study for your undergraduate degree? Did it inform your choice of Interior Design as a career?
I studied interior design for my undergraduate degree at Drexel. I chose to apply to the BS/MS program during my sophomore year because I eventually want to be a professor of interior design, so it made sense to get my Master's at Drexel.
Why did you choose this career?
I have always been fond of architecture and materiality of buildings, even from a young age. I recently came across an art project done in the fifth grade in which we had to paint ourselves in our future careers, and I had painted myself as an architect. As time went on, I found that the interior of spaces, specifically the renovations of existing buildings, was what excited me the most, so I decided on interior design as my career path.
Why did you choose Drexel University’s Westphal College of Media Arts and Design over similar programs?
I chose both the undergraduate and graduate programs at Drexel over similar programs because of the professional opportunities that Drexel offered, the high-quality of faculty teaching the program, and the URBN center. I do not think I would have found all of these things at another program.
How did your time at Drexel University’s Westphal College of Media Arts and Design prepare you for your career?
My time at Westphal prepared me for my career in more ways than one. As an undergraduate student, I took part in the Co-op program, where I worked full-time for six months at a design firm in the city. As a Master's student, I was encouraged to apply to internships, and worked part-time during my final year in the program, which transitioned into a full-time job after graduation. Working at a firm while also balancing a school work is a challenge, but this taught me how to manage my time, and prioritize tasks, which are things that cannot necessarily be taught in a classroom.
Was our faculty helpful to you in making the transition to a career in interior design? Are you still in contact with them?
The faculty was extremely helpful during the transition from student to graduate. During my time at the program, there were numerous opportunities for professional networking as well as chances to meet with faculty to discuss my plans upon graduating. It should not be a surprise, but the faculty has more connections than you think! I am still in contact with several faculty members, and am very happy to have these post-grad relationships.
What advice would you give to someone considering returning to a Master’s program in interior design?
For anyone considering returning to a Master's program, I would advise them to talk to recent graduates about their experiences pre- and post-graduation. I think it is important to hear first-hand what the program is like, how to get the most out of the program, as well as what we are doing upon graduation. LinkedIn is a great place to find people, and I know myself as well as my fellow classmates would be happy to speak to prospective students about the program the Drexel offers.