#juliadl

I had an awesome week at PW. I learned a lot more than I expected about how the company works. From the company wide design framework to the leadership and position (more about experience/expertise) "hierarchy" at Perkins+Will. I learned from a different PW member who also currently has ties to the BAC that our supervisor, Sergio, always puts effort into organizing and getting BAC students into the office. This is very meaningful to me because I understand PW members already have so many work responsibilities but they still make an effort to pursue other passions.

Seeing the dedication and fast paced work at PW motivates me to become that reliable, hardworking, sharp, and efficient in my work going forward.

Patience, engagement, and encouragement are my top qualities in which I would hope a mentor possesses. Dedication, perseverance, and listening skills seem to be respectable skills any mentee should have. It's definitely what I try to develop everyday.

There is the "Thrive Mentorship" program at Perkins&Will. Any office member may choose anyone they would like to be mentored by, or become their "champion." The champions check in with their mentees every quarter.

An ✏️ Experienced 📐 Buddy

I plan on reaching out to my firm mentor, Sergio, whenever I get an opportunity to ask for advice. Sergio speaks very highly of BAC students and is putting lots of energy into getting BAC students into Perkins&Will. Being through internships, externships, or new hirees, he hopes to diversify the PW group.

On a personal level, I believe intercultural competence means being human. Understanding that people come from different places where different ideas are taught in different ways. Now referring to a "by the book" definition, intercultural competence means having the ability to interact, work, and even connect with people who belong or identify with other cultural groups.

At PW, intercultural competence is seen in the way new incomers are treated and helped. Interns, whether international or local, are given resources so they may adapt to PW's system of operation so they may succeed. In addition, we met many firm members from countries such as China, Iraq, India, Brazil, etc. Office "champions" give designers the opportunity to express their needs. If someone is looking for more work or lessen work, their champion will respond to said needs.

During our site visit, we visited the North Pavilion at the UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, MA. We had learned earlier in the week that UMass was the client of this project. Previously a senior housing building, it now serves as an inpatient, acute-care facility.

The Boston office at Perkins&Will was very accommodating. First things first, introductions. My externship buddy and I had the chance to sit in for an office-wide intro presentation. Several office members (from long time employees to summer interns) introduced themselves through one big slideshow. Each person had one slide filled with interests, pictures, and answers to thought-provoking questions.

I got a unique insight into the people behind Perkins&Will. Many shared moments of accomplishments, trips, family, friends, and pets.

The office made time for these simple/informal yet bonding moments first thing in the morning. It shows the office can have fun and share laughs despite being a well-respected and busy workplace.

Hi everyone my name is Júlia and I'm a 3rd. year B.Arch. student. I enjoy creating art and simply looking at nature. 🎨 🌱

I wish to help create a workplace culture where questions are welcomed + expected, all are equal (including company positions), and promote a healthy work-life balance.

Looking forward to spending the week at Perkins&Will!