In today’s challenging post-pandemic landscape students need more support than ever, from networking events to portfolio reviews with potential employers. Yet between academic demands and virtual meetings, it can be challenging for aspiring designers to make the connections that are vital to success in the industry. The Student Development Committee at the International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) has launched several initiatives to help learners gain the exposure and experience needed to build their careers.
With so many factions in the industry, it is often difficult for a student to know where to begin or which groups to contact. While college associations may have campus-related events, a broader reach isn’t guaranteed. “We’re very segmented in many ways,” said Robin Reigi, co-vice president of student development at IIDA NY. “There are designers, architects, reps, and contractors. Students are not really a part of it all, and they have limited access to the industry.”
For Elisabeth Mejia, who serves as co-vice president of student development alongside Reigi, it quickly became clear that they would have to rethink their roles and what they could offer during a time of unprecedented change. “Robin started as vice president of the committee in 2020, and I came on in July of the following year,” she explained. “So when we were already thinking of ways to get students involved we had the added layer of the pandemic, when everyone was working and learning virtually.”
Indeed, in an era with more and more screen time, the committee has begun to bridge the gap by ensuring that the events are a draw for all, not just educators and the young designers. “We are relying on digitization more and more, and meetings aren’t what they used to be. For the rep who is focused on their territory and making their numbers for the month, student-focused activities just aren’t going to be a priority. We know that people are interested in offering their support, but we want them to be truly invested.”
As the founder of Robin Reigi, Inc., which specializes in the sourcing and sales of architectural products, she added that bringing people together comes naturally, and she knew that having manufacturer and firm sponsors was crucial to continued success. The new Student Uplift (SUP) program was formed to connect students, sponsors, and professionals through membership, mentorship, and events.
Mejia, an associate and senior designer at HKS, noted that membership costs are often prohibitive for younger members, so in addition to a reasonable fee to join IIDA, the committee leadership wanted to provide even more assistance. “We are finding that cost really hinders students ability to participate—$60 can be a lot.”
By including the student membership as part of different levels of sponsorship, corporate leaders contribute more than a one-time donation, but rather a gift that has lasting impact. At the inaugural SUP event, 11 student memberships were provided via sponsors. “Everyone is involved and has an active role, Mejia added. “We’re pairing our design firm advocates with students and our sponsors, and bringing as many people as we can in to participate.”
With networking, speaking engagements, and honors, the IIDA NY events continued to garner attention and more attendees, but the co-vice presidents still wanted to create other new programs. After speaking with IIDA NY president Alexandria Davis at the group’s holiday party, they decided to hold the first Career Night, and within a few months everything was organized in record time for this year’s event, which was held on February 29.
It was a time to meet with future employers, with portfolio and resume reviews available, but other features were included as part of the sold-out event, from a headshot studio to mock interview sessions, added because the students expressed that they needed better preparation. Fireside-style forum discussions were also tailored to those individuals with five years of experience or less. “We wanted to include emerging professionals, or those at the in-between stage that are still looking for career guidance. There was an intertwining of connections and sharing knowledge that are central to the IIDA mission,” Mejia said.
Career Night will be held annually, and for the Student Development Committee, the idea is to be proactive so that any programs are current and most relevant to students today. She said recent conversations have revealed that while coursework emphasizes professional practice, learners would prefer to focus on soft skills like teamwork and time management.
Plenty of ideas are on the drawing board, but Mejia said that whatever they decide to undertake next, three key elements will be present. “Every event is educational, inspirational, and fun. That’s our mantra.”
