Drag

Checking in with Architecture Intern, Talia

Written by MMA

August 17, 2025

—

We’re checking in on our architecture intern, Talia!

When the summer is over, she’ll be heading back to Taubman College at the University of Michigan, wrapping up her studies in the Masters of Architecture program.

1. First off, tell us a little about yourself. Where do you go to school? What are you majoring in? What year are you?

Hi! I’m currently going into my third and final year at UMich’s Taubman School of Architecture and Urban Planning. I’ll be graduating in May with a Masters of Architecture.

2. What made you decide to get into interior design / architecture?

I took a drawing class my first year of undergrad. We were taught the basics in making sections, plans, and perspectives. I loved the long hours of drawing and the chance to walk around my school’s campus looking at buildings. By the end of the semester, I had decided to study architecture.

3. What kinds of things do you like doing in your free time?

I love to read historical fiction, play tennis, and hang out with friends! I’ve also begun running with a Grand Rapids run club this summer, which is a new hobby.

4. How did you hear about MMA? What made you decide to apply for an internship with us?

MMA came to the career fair at UMich in the fall. I really liked the work on their website, and so I went up to their booth at the fair. Ben and Evan’s friendliness, which I’ve discovered is a reflection of the atmosphere in the office, was the final convincer.

5. Tell us a little about what you’ve done this summer?

This summer I’ve worked on several housing projects, each completely different in size and budget as well as needs and desires of the client. I’ve built a physical model, made renderings, and drawn out plans in revit or often by hand.

6. What has been your favorite thing you’ve worked on at MMA?

My favorite project I’ve worked on this summer has to be an addition and renovation we’re doing on an existing home in Muskegon. The project is pretty unique as the clients need their home to be made accessible in line with the American Disability Act. I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of balancing harmonious design with highly technical requirements. At the end of the day, I’m hopeful that the project will make everyday day life more comfortable and enjoyable for the client.

7. What school project are you most proud of?

This past spring I designed a multi-family housing complex in Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood. The studio was the most technically challenging one I’ve taken so far, and we worked in groups of three to be able to complete the work. With its complex and difficult history, Detroit still faces a lot of issues with tenant retention and re-establishing a sense of community. I felt that my team’s project addressed those issues seriously, pushing back on the standards of construction and unit layout being built today.