4 answers
Camari
Student
Keller, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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How do I find jobs/internships in my preferred career path (interior design), ? What class should I take in college to go along with interior design being my major? Why is this a good long term career choice?
9th grade I was in Principles of Architecture, 10th- Graphic Design, and 11th/12th- Interior Design 1 & 2. I have the knowledge, but getting the experience hasn’t been easy.
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4 answers
Joseph Ford
141
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
https://www.indeed.com/q-interior-design-intern-jobs.html?vjk=f5f6b2f7105a231e
https://www.behindthedesignco.com/blog/8-ways-to-find-an-interior-design-internship
Well, I no expert in this subject but it really depends on what specific area of interior design. There are many. I provided above some links which can be helpful.
https://www.behindthedesignco.com/blog/8-ways-to-find-an-interior-design-internship
Well, I no expert in this subject but it really depends on what specific area of interior design. There are many. I provided above some links which can be helpful.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4989
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Camari.
Finding Jobs and Internships in Interior Design
To find jobs and internships in the field of interior design, consider the following steps:
Leverage Your School’s Career Services: Many colleges and universities have career service departments that can help you find internships and job opportunities. They may also offer resources such as resume reviews, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Join Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) can provide access to job listings, networking opportunities, and industry events.
Create a Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your design work can help you stand out to potential employers. Consider creating a digital portfolio that you can share online or in-person.
Network: Building relationships with professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
Recommended College Classes for Interior Design
In addition to taking courses specific to interior design, consider taking the following classes to complement your major:
Business and Entrepreneurship: Understanding the business side of interior design can be beneficial in starting your own design firm or working as a freelancer.
Color Theory and Materials: Classes in color theory and materials can help you develop a strong understanding of how to use color and materials effectively in your designs.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD): CAD software is commonly used in the field of interior design. Taking a class in CAD can help you develop the skills necessary to create professional-quality designs.
Sustainable Design: As sustainability becomes increasingly important, taking classes in sustainable design can help you stay competitive in the field and appeal to eco-conscious clients.
Why Interior Design is a Good Long-Term Career Choice
Interior design can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice for several reasons:
Creative Expression: Interior design allows for creative expression and the ability to transform spaces into beautiful and functional environments.
Growing Demand: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of interior designers is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Versatility: Interior design can be applied to a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and hospitality, providing opportunities to work on diverse projects.
Personal Satisfaction: Helping clients create their dream spaces can be personally rewarding and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Authoritative References Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
International Interior Design Association (IIDA)
God Bless,
JC.
Finding Jobs and Internships in Interior Design
To find jobs and internships in the field of interior design, consider the following steps:
Leverage Your School’s Career Services: Many colleges and universities have career service departments that can help you find internships and job opportunities. They may also offer resources such as resume reviews, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Join Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) can provide access to job listings, networking opportunities, and industry events.
Create a Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your design work can help you stand out to potential employers. Consider creating a digital portfolio that you can share online or in-person.
Network: Building relationships with professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
Recommended College Classes for Interior Design
In addition to taking courses specific to interior design, consider taking the following classes to complement your major:
Business and Entrepreneurship: Understanding the business side of interior design can be beneficial in starting your own design firm or working as a freelancer.
Color Theory and Materials: Classes in color theory and materials can help you develop a strong understanding of how to use color and materials effectively in your designs.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD): CAD software is commonly used in the field of interior design. Taking a class in CAD can help you develop the skills necessary to create professional-quality designs.
Sustainable Design: As sustainability becomes increasingly important, taking classes in sustainable design can help you stay competitive in the field and appeal to eco-conscious clients.
Why Interior Design is a Good Long-Term Career Choice
Interior design can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice for several reasons:
Creative Expression: Interior design allows for creative expression and the ability to transform spaces into beautiful and functional environments.
Growing Demand: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of interior designers is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Versatility: Interior design can be applied to a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and hospitality, providing opportunities to work on diverse projects.
Personal Satisfaction: Helping clients create their dream spaces can be personally rewarding and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Authoritative References Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
International Interior Design Association (IIDA)
God Bless,
JC.
Joe L.
Program Manager
59
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
As a high school student interested in interior design, you can follow these steps to find internship opportunities and gain valuable experience:
1. Research Local Interior Design Firms
Identify Firms: Look for interior design firms in your area. Use online directories, search engines, or local business listings.
Company Websites: Visit the websites of these firms to learn about their work and see if they have any internship opportunities listed.
2. Reach Out Directly
Cold Emailing: Prepare a professional email expressing your interest in an internship. Include your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are passionate about interior design and what you hope to gain from the experience.
Phone Calls: If email is not effective, consider calling the firms to inquire about internship opportunities.
3. Network
School Counselors and Teachers: Talk to your school’s career counselor or teachers who might have connections in the industry.
Career Fairs: Attend career fairs and networking events that focus on design and architecture. These can be opportunities to meet professionals and learn about internships.
4. Online Job Portals
Internship Websites: Use websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, Internships.com, and LinkedIn to search for internship postings in interior design.
Social Media: Follow interior design companies on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, as they sometimes post internship opportunities there.
5. Join Professional Organizations
Student Memberships: Join professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). These organizations often have resources and listings for internships.
Events and Workshops: Participate in events, workshops, and webinars hosted by these organizations to network with professionals and learn about potential internships.
6. Leverage Your Network
Friends and Family: Ask friends, family, and acquaintances if they know any interior designers or companies that might offer internships.
Alumni Networks: If your school has an alumni network, reach out to former students who might be working in the field.
7. Volunteer
Nonprofits and Community Projects: Look for volunteer opportunities with nonprofits or community projects that involve interior design. This can provide valuable experience and build your resume.
8. Create a Portfolio
Showcase Your Work: Compile any relevant projects, sketches, or design work into a portfolio. This can be a physical book or a digital portfolio.
Highlight Skills: Make sure to highlight any skills you have gained through school projects, volunteer work, or personal projects.
9. Prepare for Interviews
Mock Interviews: Practice interviewing with a teacher, counselor, or family member to gain confidence.
Know Your Strengths: Be ready to discuss your passion for interior design, any relevant experience you have, and what you hope to achieve through an internship.
10. Stay Persistent
Follow Up: After sending applications or inquiries, follow up with a polite email or call to show your continued interest.
Keep Applying: Don’t get discouraged by rejections. Keep applying and expanding your search until you find an opportunity.
By taking these steps, a high school student can increase their chances of finding an interior design internship and gaining valuable experience for their resume.
Here's a sample letter you can use
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a high school student at [Your School's Name], currently in [Your Grade Level]. I am writing to express my sincere interest in an internship opportunity at [Company Name] this summer.
I have always been passionate about interior design, and I am eager to learn more about the field by gaining hands-on experience. Through my coursework and personal projects, I have developed a keen eye for design, color, and spatial planning. I am particularly inspired by [specific aspect of their work or a project of theirs you admire], which aligns with my own interests and aspirations.
Although I am still a student, I am highly motivated and eager to contribute to your team. I am confident that my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn will make me a valuable addition to your company. I am open to any tasks that will help me learn more about the industry, from assisting with design projects to helping with administrative duties.
Enclosed with this letter are my resume and a small portfolio of my work, which I hope will give you a better understanding of my skills and interests. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team and learn from your experienced professionals.
Thank you very much for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and learning from your talented team. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule an interview or discuss this opportunity further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
1. Research Local Interior Design Firms
Identify Firms: Look for interior design firms in your area. Use online directories, search engines, or local business listings.
Company Websites: Visit the websites of these firms to learn about their work and see if they have any internship opportunities listed.
2. Reach Out Directly
Cold Emailing: Prepare a professional email expressing your interest in an internship. Include your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are passionate about interior design and what you hope to gain from the experience.
Phone Calls: If email is not effective, consider calling the firms to inquire about internship opportunities.
3. Network
School Counselors and Teachers: Talk to your school’s career counselor or teachers who might have connections in the industry.
Career Fairs: Attend career fairs and networking events that focus on design and architecture. These can be opportunities to meet professionals and learn about internships.
4. Online Job Portals
Internship Websites: Use websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, Internships.com, and LinkedIn to search for internship postings in interior design.
Social Media: Follow interior design companies on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, as they sometimes post internship opportunities there.
5. Join Professional Organizations
Student Memberships: Join professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). These organizations often have resources and listings for internships.
Events and Workshops: Participate in events, workshops, and webinars hosted by these organizations to network with professionals and learn about potential internships.
6. Leverage Your Network
Friends and Family: Ask friends, family, and acquaintances if they know any interior designers or companies that might offer internships.
Alumni Networks: If your school has an alumni network, reach out to former students who might be working in the field.
7. Volunteer
Nonprofits and Community Projects: Look for volunteer opportunities with nonprofits or community projects that involve interior design. This can provide valuable experience and build your resume.
8. Create a Portfolio
Showcase Your Work: Compile any relevant projects, sketches, or design work into a portfolio. This can be a physical book or a digital portfolio.
Highlight Skills: Make sure to highlight any skills you have gained through school projects, volunteer work, or personal projects.
9. Prepare for Interviews
Mock Interviews: Practice interviewing with a teacher, counselor, or family member to gain confidence.
Know Your Strengths: Be ready to discuss your passion for interior design, any relevant experience you have, and what you hope to achieve through an internship.
10. Stay Persistent
Follow Up: After sending applications or inquiries, follow up with a polite email or call to show your continued interest.
Keep Applying: Don’t get discouraged by rejections. Keep applying and expanding your search until you find an opportunity.
By taking these steps, a high school student can increase their chances of finding an interior design internship and gaining valuable experience for their resume.
Here's a sample letter you can use
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a high school student at [Your School's Name], currently in [Your Grade Level]. I am writing to express my sincere interest in an internship opportunity at [Company Name] this summer.
I have always been passionate about interior design, and I am eager to learn more about the field by gaining hands-on experience. Through my coursework and personal projects, I have developed a keen eye for design, color, and spatial planning. I am particularly inspired by [specific aspect of their work or a project of theirs you admire], which aligns with my own interests and aspirations.
Although I am still a student, I am highly motivated and eager to contribute to your team. I am confident that my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn will make me a valuable addition to your company. I am open to any tasks that will help me learn more about the industry, from assisting with design projects to helping with administrative duties.
Enclosed with this letter are my resume and a small portfolio of my work, which I hope will give you a better understanding of my skills and interests. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team and learn from your experienced professionals.
Thank you very much for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and learning from your talented team. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule an interview or discuss this opportunity further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Joe L.
Program Manager
59
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
A good college curriculum for someone aspiring to a career in interior design should include a mix of design theory, practical skills, technical knowledge, and business acumen. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what such a curriculum might entail:
Core Courses
Introduction to Interior Design
Fundamentals of design principles and elements
Overview of the interior design profession
Design Theory and History
History of interior design and architecture
Key movements and influential designers
Drawing and Drafting
Hand drawing and sketching techniques
Technical drafting and blueprint reading
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Training in software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit
Creating digital plans and 3D models
Space Planning
Principles of spatial organization
Functional and aesthetic considerations in layout design
Specialized Courses
Residential Design
Design considerations for homes and apartments
Client needs assessment and design solutions
Commercial Design
Designing for offices, retail spaces, and hospitality venues
ADA compliance and public safety regulations
Sustainable Design
Principles of green design and sustainability
Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions
Lighting Design
Basics of lighting theory and application
Designing with natural and artificial light
Materials and Textiles
Properties and applications of various materials
Textile selection and use in interior design
Technical and Practical Skills
Building Systems and Codes
Understanding HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
Building codes and regulations
Furniture Design and Selection
Principles of furniture design and ergonomics
Custom furniture design and sourcing
Color Theory
Psychological and cultural impacts of color
Color palettes and harmonization techniques
3D Modeling and Visualization
Advanced rendering techniques
Using software to create realistic visualizations
Business and Professional Practice
Professional Practice
Ethics and responsibilities in interior design
Project management and workflow
Business of Interior Design
Marketing, branding, and business development
Client relationships and communication
Portfolio Development
Creating a professional portfolio of work
Presentation skills and personal branding
Internship
Practical experience in a real-world setting
Networking and professional connections
Electives and Enrichment
Art and Art History
Broader understanding of art movements and their influences
Integrating artistic principles into design
Psychology of Design
Understanding how design affects human behavior and well-being
Designing for diverse populations
Advanced Topics in Interior Design
Emerging trends and technologies
Specialized areas such as set design or exhibition design
Capstone Project
Capstone Design Project
Comprehensive design project demonstrating accumulated knowledge
Presentation to a panel of faculty and industry professionals
Tips for Success
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
Networking: Take advantage of networking opportunities through internships, design expos, and student chapters of professional organizations like ASID or IIDA.
Continual Learning: Stay updated with industry trends, new software, and technologies. Consider additional certifications in areas like sustainable design or advanced CAD software.
By following this curriculum, students will be well-prepared for a successful career in interior design, equipped with both the creative and technical skills necessary to thrive in the industry.
Core Courses
Introduction to Interior Design
Fundamentals of design principles and elements
Overview of the interior design profession
Design Theory and History
History of interior design and architecture
Key movements and influential designers
Drawing and Drafting
Hand drawing and sketching techniques
Technical drafting and blueprint reading
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Training in software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit
Creating digital plans and 3D models
Space Planning
Principles of spatial organization
Functional and aesthetic considerations in layout design
Specialized Courses
Residential Design
Design considerations for homes and apartments
Client needs assessment and design solutions
Commercial Design
Designing for offices, retail spaces, and hospitality venues
ADA compliance and public safety regulations
Sustainable Design
Principles of green design and sustainability
Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions
Lighting Design
Basics of lighting theory and application
Designing with natural and artificial light
Materials and Textiles
Properties and applications of various materials
Textile selection and use in interior design
Technical and Practical Skills
Building Systems and Codes
Understanding HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
Building codes and regulations
Furniture Design and Selection
Principles of furniture design and ergonomics
Custom furniture design and sourcing
Color Theory
Psychological and cultural impacts of color
Color palettes and harmonization techniques
3D Modeling and Visualization
Advanced rendering techniques
Using software to create realistic visualizations
Business and Professional Practice
Professional Practice
Ethics and responsibilities in interior design
Project management and workflow
Business of Interior Design
Marketing, branding, and business development
Client relationships and communication
Portfolio Development
Creating a professional portfolio of work
Presentation skills and personal branding
Internship
Practical experience in a real-world setting
Networking and professional connections
Electives and Enrichment
Art and Art History
Broader understanding of art movements and their influences
Integrating artistic principles into design
Psychology of Design
Understanding how design affects human behavior and well-being
Designing for diverse populations
Advanced Topics in Interior Design
Emerging trends and technologies
Specialized areas such as set design or exhibition design
Capstone Project
Capstone Design Project
Comprehensive design project demonstrating accumulated knowledge
Presentation to a panel of faculty and industry professionals
Tips for Success
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
Networking: Take advantage of networking opportunities through internships, design expos, and student chapters of professional organizations like ASID or IIDA.
Continual Learning: Stay updated with industry trends, new software, and technologies. Consider additional certifications in areas like sustainable design or advanced CAD software.
By following this curriculum, students will be well-prepared for a successful career in interior design, equipped with both the creative and technical skills necessary to thrive in the industry.