Embracing Opportunities: From Student Intern to Full-time at ESa
Starting a student internship can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but for architecture team member, Amber Adams, it was the beginning of an incredible journey with ESa. Her time as a student intern not only solidified her passion for architecture but also played a pivotal role in her decision to join ESa as a full-time employee.
Amber, who earned her Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, dived into her internship at ESa in the summer of 2022. By July 2023, she was back as a full-time team member. Keep reading to discover how her internship shaped her career path, the roles she’s been tackling in her first year, and the golden nuggets of wisdom she’s gathered along the way.
Reflect on the internship and why you selected ESa as your first job after graduating?
I remember being extremely nervous on my first day, but by the end, everyone who approached me and introduced themselves made the first day less intimidating! I was so excited to see the translation between academia and professional practice and to be a part of a design team. I worked with some fantastic people in the office, working through multiple assignments on various projects. By August, I had learned so much about the design process, design technology, and how to foster community in a workplace. The open and inviting nature of ESa and everyone I met throughout the internship made the process enjoyable and rewarding!
Knowing I already had a great support system and community here at ESa made it easy to come back. Since I had already spent a summer here getting to know ESa’s process, community and projects, I felt trust had been established, making the transition to a full-time job less daunting.
What have you been involved with in your first year as an employee?
One of my favorite things in my first year at ESa has been the ability to get involved in the Nashville design community, the ESa family and many more opportunities. Internally, I have been involved with the sustainability committee, working towards providing educational insight into sustainable design and tracking ESa’s sustainable goals. I have also been involved with students, building relationships with interns and high schoolers who come for a day to shadow!
Outside of ESa, I am a part of the AIA Emerging Professional (EP) committee, where I work with a group of EPs all over Nashville to set up events and foster relationships among young professionals. I am also involved with Nashville Design Week (NDW), helping select events for the week-long celebration that align with NDW’s yearly concept and mission. I also spent a day building a home through Habitat for Humanity with a group of coworkers—what a rewarding experience!
Importance of internships and mentoring.
In my personal experience, internships have played a crucial role in shaping a student’s professional interests. Students will be able to gain knowledge on real-life design problems and solutions, build communication skills, and, most importantly, learn more about themselves as designers. An internship can also help a student find a mentor, someone they can rely on for questions, advice, and friendship. There will always be an adjustment to working in a professional environment, and a mentor will help encourage and support the process!
What advice would you give to other students who are considering an internship in architecture? Or considering an internship at ESa?
For students considering an internship in architecture or at ESa, I would say—dive in! Internships are invaluable for gaining real-world experience, building professional relationships, and developing your design skills. At ESa, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive community that is eager to help you grow and succeed.
My biggest advice is to be open and perceptive to design ideas that challenge you. Make sure to stay aware of what’s going on in the design world, and truly explore what excites you.
How do you balance creativity and practicality in your designs?
Balancing these two things is one of the main things I am still learning in my first year at ESa. The collaborative nature of architectural design has been the best way for me to learn how to balance creativity and practicality in design. Being able to ask questions, sit in design charrettes, and interact with design managers, project managers, and principals is helping me understand what it takes to make a building successful in design and construction.
Amber’s journey from intern to full-time employee at ESa has been incredibly rewarding. The supportive community, engaging projects, and numerous opportunities for professional growth made her transition seamless. Through involvement in various committees and external organizations, she gained a deeper understanding of the design process and the importance of sustainability and mentorship in architecture. At ESa, the collaborative environment has been key to balancing creativity and practicality, and I encourage all students to seize similar opportunities for their own growth and success.
Whether you’re a student aspiring to enter the field of architecture or considering an internship at ESa, we hope Amber’s story provides insight and inspiration for your own professional path.
