This summer, ARC has hosted a design intern to support both the marketing and design aspects of our firm. We sat down with Maia to learn a little more about her experience!

Tell us a bit about yourself, and what led you to the Architecture program at Cornell?

The college search was a complex process for me to navigate, growing up with British parents who had little to no knowledge (or interest for that matter) in American schools. I knew I wanted to find an education that was both technical and creative. I knew though that I couldn’t study at a school with a mission that was limited to only my personal idea of success. I like to feel I can learn something completely different and surprising when I step out of my own studio space for example. The Cornell architecture program embodies this element of what I wanted almost exactly, the cohort I work with is very talented and diverse, I learn as much from my peers as I do from instruction and I think that’s a good thing.

As I worked through my portfolio submissions, I found myself saving my favourite writing, spreads, and projects for when I worked up the courage to submit my Cornell application finally. That portfolio felt like everything I had worked for academically, creatively, and personally had come together to authentically represent who I was, and should they accept, then it must be the place.

What drew you to ARC for the summer? What do you hope to get out of this experience?

My focus and interest within architecture, and in my life as a whole, has long been education and childcare, having worked as a teacher and camp counsellor for many years, and working last summer in London designing for a nursery company. Initially, it was a connection that encouraged me to reach out to ARC, as well as the locality and Boston identity. After learning that ARC works in building educational spaces, it felt like a very fulfilling and natural continuation of my interest and career in architecture. My initial impression of the firm in its operation was that people here care and communicate well both in-office with each other and with clients too. This drew me in as well! 

I hope to gain new perspective of how an architecture company operates within and with outreach on the marketing side too. I’m very intrigued by the people-focused side of architecture and working closely with a client every step of the way rather than a more individualized design process.

What has been the most interesting assignment so far this summer?

Working on a proposal for the design of new dorms, dining, and campus plan for a local independent school has been most interesting for me, because I haven’t yet ever seen the full progression of a project with so many considerations to it.

Go-to Trader Joe’s lunch?

I’ve enjoyed the California roll and Chicken Salad but the best thing they sell is the Mini Brie with some crackers.

How has exploring Boston been since ARC is located conveniently in Back Bay?

I find myself drawn to busier cities than Boston usually but spending time in Back Bay has won me over to the Boston life. It’s very spacious and clean around here and everyone is friendly (though not in their driving). It's a beautiful place, especially to work.

If not architecture, what would you have wanted to study?

Mechanical Engineering, though I have more of a background in the arts, I really enjoy Physics and anything in STEM with a real-world, tangible application.

ARC wants to thank Maia for her insights and hard work this summer, and wishes her a great rest of the summer and much success through the remainder of her time at Cornell!

Connect with Maia on LinkedIn