Student Career Day @SeattleDesignCenter

November 2022
The Seattle Design Center is a touch stone for our industry in the Pacific Northwest.  For the Trade it’s a place of community and connection.  For our clients it’s a place for quality furnishings, fabrics, finishes, most of which you can’t purchase retail or get anywhere else, and above all concierge service.
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For years the SDC has hosted Student Career Days.  I’ve participated with these events from very early on in my career. From the day I graduated I had a heart for mentoring and encouraging the next generation of designer.  I’m an Adjunct Professor these days as well at a couple local colleges so it is a natural connection for me as a volunteer opportunity.

As a student at the Seattle Art Institute 25 years ago, my first time at this impressive facility was so daunting and intimidating. I didn’t feel like I belonged.  My hope today is to help other students get past this feeling and to help them feel welcome.  This is their resource just as much as it is to a designer with many years of experience.

This year our theme was “Hitting the Ground Running”.  It was our goal to help empower them with skills as they graduate and enter the design industry.  It was an honor to moderate an incredible panel of professionals.  What a beautiful experience when so many with a heart for the next generation come together with a common purpose to give to others in such a selfless way. 
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Paula
#designteacher
#designmentor 

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