Earlier this year, I had the privilege of participating in West Morris Central High School’s Career Day. It was an exciting opportunity to share my journey in interior design with sophomore students and spark their interest in a dynamic and rewarding field. For those who couldn’t attend or are simply curious about the industry, here’s a recap of my presentation and what I shared.
An Invitation to Dream
Career Day was a unique event for the sophomores, offering them a chance to explore various industries while the other grades tackled standardized exams. Alongside Karen, a commercial interior architect, I co-presented on the fascinating world of design. Our 30-minute sessions showcased stunning before-and-after images and highlighted the passion we both have for our careers.
Students could choose three industries to explore during the event, and I like to think ours was one of the most exciting. With visuals that demonstrated the transformative power of design and personal stories about the creative challenges we tackle, we aimed to inspire students to consider careers where imagination meets functionality.
The Journey Into Design
One of the key messages we wanted to convey was that interior design is about much more than aesthetics. It’s a blend of problem-solving, creativity, and understanding human needs. Whether designing a cozy living room or conceptualizing the layout of a retail store, designers craft spaces that enhance experiences and reflect the essence of their inhabitants or users.
Karen brought her expertise in commercial architecture, sharing stories of creating inviting, efficient retail spaces. Meanwhile, I highlighted the residential side of design, emphasizing the joy of turning a house into a home. Together, we painted a picture of the versatility and scope of opportunities in the field.
Why Choose a Career in Interior Design?
Interior design is an excellent career choice for those who love creativity, collaboration, and making a tangible impact on people’s lives. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth considering:
1. Creative Freedom: Every project is an opportunity to bring unique visions to life.
2. Collaboration: Work closely with clients, architects, contractors, and other designers to bring ideas to fruition.
3. Problem-Solving: Balance form and function to design spaces that are both beautiful and practical.
4. Endless Learning: The field constantly evolves with trends, technologies, and materials.
Advice for Aspiring Designers
For students interested in pursuing a career in interior design, I shared these tips:
• Embrace Education: Start with foundational courses in design, art, and architecture.
• Build a Portfolio: Showcase your creativity with personal projects or internships.
• Network: Connect with professionals in the industry for mentorship and guidance.
• Stay Curious: Keep up with trends and innovations to stay inspired.
Closing Thoughts
Being able to share my passion for interior design with the next generation was an incredibly rewarding experience. I hope this glimpse into Career Day inspires young minds to explore their creativity and consider paths they may not have otherwise thought possible. Interior design isn’t just about decorating—it’s about shaping environments that enrich lives.
For anyone curious about diving into this field, remember: every space has a story, and as a designer, you get to help tell it.
Below is the full PDF file to download and view