Checking in with Interior Design Intern, Mariela
We’re checking in on our interior design intern, Mariela!
When the summer is over, she’ll be heading back to Purdue, continuing her studies in interior design.
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 Mariela Rampersad and I’ve been studying interior design and business at Purdue University. I will be a senior this fall and am excited to continue my design journey after I graduate this coming spring!
2. What made you decide to get into interior design / architecture?
Ever since I was young I had a fascination with art and architecture/design. I loved drawing houses, looking at old buildings, and was always interested in how people designed spaces. Throughout high school I found my passion for interior design through hands-on job experiences and have grown to love design even more through my education at Purdue.
3. What kinds of things do you like doing in your free time?
During my free time, especially in the summer, I love to go golfing and going on walks! I enjoy going to the lake, shopping, going to farmer’s markets, and finding the next best restaurant. Most of all, I spend a majority of my time with family and friends finding the best ways to enjoy a Michigan summer!
4. How did you hear about MMA? What made you decide to apply for an internship with us?
While searching for internships, I spent time researching companies in West Michigan and was drawn to MMA for their integrated approach to both residential and commercial design. I have always been interested in architecture along with interior design and MMA’s unique team of architects and designers was appealing to me. I feel lucky to have the opportunity to learn under such a well-versed and talented team!
5. Tell us a little about what you’ve done this summer? Both at work and for fun.
At MMA I’ve been able to dip my toe in on so many different projects at different stages. Overall I’ve been helping with residential floor plan ideations, material palettes, lighting selections, graphic tasks, construction documents, and the list goes on! While working on projects, I’ve had the opportunity to do many site visits for both residential and commercial projects. Between meeting clients or attending events like the SOMI luncheon or the Absolutely Accessible Kent Workshop, I’ve been able to see and experience great relationships MMA has formed.
Outside of work, I’ve spent much of my summer by the lake or golfing with my family/friends! I also love to stay creative whether that’s through art or baking.
6. What has been your favorite thing you’ve worked on at MMA?
Two of my favorite experiences at MMA have been working on residential projects where I was involved early in the design process. I’ve especially enjoyed collaborating with a team to develop the client’s design needs and vision, while also building relationships with them throughout the project. I really enjoy material selections - helping curate materials that reflect both their needs and style is always a fun creative challenge.
7. What school project are you most proud of?
It’s difficult to choose a single project I’m most proud of as each semester brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. However, one of my best projects was from this past spring semester, when we were prompted to design a day center for the homeless just outside of Indianapolis, IN. This project was part of an annual ASID state competition, which added another challenging aspect. I spent a lot of time researching and found that to be as impactful and rewarding as the actual design of the space. After presenting the project, I was honored to be selected by the Purdue Interior Design faculty to be 1 of 5 that represented our program in the competition- an experience that felt like a major milestone in my education journey. (see below)
8. What’s one thing you want to do this summer before heading back to school?
I would love to make it back up north again before I go back to school. Michigan summers are so great and I want to make the most of it!
9. What are you most looking forward to this upcoming school year?
I’m so excited to be back at school with all my friends because the people make the place. I’m especially grateful to have found some of my closest friends through the interior design program. In the fall, we typically take on a major competition project—our biggest project yet—and in the spring, we collaborate on a senior show! The senior show is always a special event and a great way for the program to show off our hard work over the years before we head off on our own paths.
