Elevating Student Success in Interior Design

On January 29, 2025, IIDA Northern California hosted StEP Part 3: Student Empowerment Program in San Francisco, bringing together aspiring interior designers and industry professionals for an evening of mentorship, career development, and networking.

A Night of Professional Growth

The event kicked off with a Professional Roundtable, where students had the opportunity to engage with leading design professionals from firms such as Gensler, Huntsman, Revel, and MillerKnoll. Each expert shared insights about their career paths, industry trends, and strategies for standing out in the competitive design field. One of the most impactful moments was hearing firsthand from design professionals about the many different options available within the industry. Students realized how non-linear professional journeys often are, with many discovering that alternative paths can lead to even more valuable opportunities.

Resume & Portfolio Review + Personal Branding

One of the highlights of the evening was the Resume & Portfolio Review session, where students received one-on-one feedback on their work. In parallel, the Build Your Brand workshop guided students in refining their professional identity, leveraging LinkedIn, and crafting a compelling personal narrative to enhance their job search. Many students left with a better understanding of how to promote themselves beyond just their resumes, incorporating their unique experiences and personal stories into their branding.

Showroom Tour & Networking

The evening concluded with a showroom tour and networking session, allowing students to experience innovative workplace solutions while continuing conversations with industry professionals in a more informal setting. The networking session was particularly engaging, as students were able to strategize on how to individuate themselves and stand out to employers. It was eye-opening for many attendees who had never engaged with design professionals outside of their college professors, providing the

Memorable Moments & Impact

Throughout the evening, the energy in the room was incredibly positive. Attendees frequently applauded and laughed during the panel discussion, highlighting the engaging and insightful nature of the conversation. Several students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to better understand how IIDA and its events can support their transition to the professional world through portfolio reviews, design competitions, and networking opportunities.

Special Thanks

A huge thank you to our guest speakers, mentors, and volunteers who made this event possible. Your guidance and expertise provided invaluable support to the next generation of designers.