Questions Answered

This past week or so has included several wonderful opportunities to hear and network with people in the design field. We had a visit from Mary Jane Grigsby (President of NCIDQ), heard a presentation from Nick Christopher (an Architectural Designer at Gensler in LA), a presentation from Debbie Nestvogal (an Interior Designer at CJMW), a visit from Paula Carr (a Senior Associate at tvsdesign), and we took a trip to Durham where we toured the Freelon Group Architect firm as well as the Durham County Public Library, which they designed. All these opportunities were extremely informative for me in reference to several aspects. Mrs. Carr talked to us about the ways they went about process work in their firm; how they presented their work, and how they worked with clients. The most apparent point in her presentation was that tvsdesign was basically formed like our studios are now. That was pretty reassuring to me. Another thing I found interesting and that really blew my mind was that they sent off their renderings to China for someone to set up and complete. That is still astounding me today. The trip to Durham was great as well. We were able to hear from several associates about pertinent portfolio information, how they work together, see the different areas in the firm, and see projects they were working on. The other opportunities of the week were just as intriguing and helpful as these two were. Mrs. Grigsby’s talk was enlightening as well. She was able to give us information on taking the NCIDQ test after we graduate. The great thing about this is that I don’t have to wait three years to take it after graduating. We are able to take the first part of the test right after graduation! It was a bit daunting to think that in a little over a year’s time is when this will happen. On the other hand, it’s so exciting!