The Center for Architecture and Design was excited to hire a talented and dedicated Philadelphia student, Sophea Nouth, as an intern this summer. Ms. Nouth found our internship from her graphic design teacher, Mr. Jackson, and quickly became an asset to the ADE team over the summer. Sophea attends South Philadelphia High School and dreams of becoming an interior designer. Providing internships like this is one of the many ways ADE supports K-Career pipelines for all current and future designers.


Q: Before this internship, how did you envision your future? How did this experience reinforce or change those expectations?  
A: "I’ve always dreamed of working in an environment where I can be myself. My experience with ADE showed me that that lifestyle is obtainable and not just a dream. Everyone at CFAD is very supportive and uplifting towards one another. I have also envisioned my future to be the same routine every day. ADE showed me that every day can be different and exciting. There is always something new every day,  and often tasks I would not have imagined myself doing. For example, I never imagined myself assisting Michael teaching a workshop at recreation centers. My time at ADE has shown me what the future can look like in this profession."

Q: With your goals of being an interior designer, how has the internship contributed to your professional growth?  
A: "ADE has definitely taught me to be more responsible and patient. It taught me that no matter how many mistakes I make, there are solutions to those mistakes. I’ve learned that your colleagues are crucial people in your life. I have received so much help and warmth from everyone at CFAD. It feels like I’m working with people I have known my whole life, not just the past five weeks. This has helped me grow in a professional setting and understand what it would be like to have a career in design." 

Q: The summer was filled with so many exciting moments for the team! What was the most memorable moment of your internship?
A: "The most memorable moment was the last all-staff luncheons. I got to hear about everyone’s summers! We laughed, caught up, and ate some delicious food. The staff lunch felt more like I was out for brunch with family I hadn’t seen in a while."

Q: Throughout your time with the ADE team you worked with Michael, Liza, and Carly each week and took on some very different tasks. Describe your favorite project you worked on.  
A: "My favorite project I worked on was fixing up Rhawnhurst Elementary’s project for the exhibit. After some transportation, a few items needed to be repaired. Because of my love for interior design, I felt like I was living my childhood dream, getting to design the interior of a classroom with all the supplies it needed. I was blown away by how creative the students were to begin with and this project allowed me to see all the details the students thoughtfully added."


Interested in volunteering with CFAD's Architecture and Design Education program?  Please reach out to Michael Spain (michael@philadelphiacfa.org), Liza Niles (liza@philadelphiacfa.org), or Carly Clifford (carly@philadelphiacfa.org) for more information.