Q1: How did you start your internship searching process?
A: I started my internship searching process during winter break. I went through a list of top 100 Bay Area firms and a list of top firms worldwide, and weeded out firms that weren't located in San Francisco or Oakland, as well as firms that had less than 5 people (I wanted to work in a mid-sized firm). After picking and choosing I had about 30+ firms left, some of which did not have job openings listed. I sent in applications for the firms that had job openings, and then emailed my resume and over letter to firms that weren't hiring. I customized each cover letter to each firm, explaining my intent, my experience, and why I was a great fit for the firm. (and of course, subtly flattering the firm's past work haha). After a couple of months I got a responses from a few firms and went in with my portfolio for interviews.
Q2: What tips do you have for fellow AIAS members on finding an internship?
A: Apply to everything, even if you don't think you have a shot. The more firms you contact, the more likely one of them will need an intern. Start early and gain momentum; once you have one internship the experience will add to your eligibility for your next internship.
Q3: What firm are you working for right now?
A: I'm currently working for the KPA Group in Oakland. It is a mid-sized firm that has both architects/engineers, and has an emphasis in structural work. I ultimately chose this one over other firms because I felt this internship helped and coincided with my structural engineering minor. And also becuase I get paid.
Q4: What kind of preparations did you have to make for the internship?
A: My firm mailed me a contract and two information booklets before I started working. The booklets were about drafting standards and office procedures, and I was expected to read through these booklets prior to starting my job. I also went shopping for the appropriate professional office wear.
Q5: What kind of work are you doing for the firm right now?
A: I draft and edit floor plans, sections, and detail sheets. I've also worked on LEED diagrams dealing with daylighting, roof area, accessibility routes, etc. I went on a few site visits in Oakland, where I had to document site conditions and measurements. I've also attended weekly office meetings as well as been to an in-office AIA lecture series. Every day is different and when there isn't much drafting work I do secretarial work too, though I've never had to get coffee or anything.
Q6: Are you working on any big projects currently?
A: A project we just recently finished is a large governmental office building in Martinez, CA. I've also been working on the Oakland Military Institute school buildings, Westminster Amphitheater, and Southwest Airline Terminals in SFIA.
Q7: What have you learned so far from your internship?
A: I've gotten a lot better at 2D drafting in terms of plotting, xrefs, blocks, file transfers, etc. Working in a firm means working with other people on the same project files so everything is standardized and there isn't room to mess up or restart. I've also learned a lot about materials, glazing, fireproofing, ADA regulations, codes, diagramming, LEED, and construction details.
Q8: Do you think it is valuable to have an internship during undergrad?
A: YES, you want to know what you're getting yourself into. School and work are so different; in the real world you can't make buildings with ridiculous curves or ramps that people can't walk on...there are so many restrictions and building codes to design by. If anything we design in studio were to be built it would either cost a bajillion dollars, or fall in on itself. I wish we could learn more about how to make REAL buildings, contracts, pricing, codes, and materials in school.
Q9: Tips for future interns?
A: Don't be afraid to ask questions, since they don't expect you to know how to do everything. Keep a good relationship with your boss and always say yes to office lunch outings and pizza parties. NOTE: it is a lot easier to get internship offers from firms that have Berkeley alumni architects.
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Q10: Final comments?
A: Dress appropriately. Depending on the firm, you may have to wear a dress shirt, slacks, and heels (for girls) everyday. Casual Fridays!
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