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Radiance Ham
Go Getters 17 years ago No Comments

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Radiance Ham lives up to her expressive name. She’s a glowing example of a student driven to absorb as much knowledge as possible with the goal of a white-hot interior design career. RadianceHam-web.jpgThis erudite senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio will soon be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. With singular focus, keen perception, and a positive attitude, Radiance exudes confidence. Although she’s got her feet firmly planted on the ground, we here at PLiNTH & CHiNTZ have no doubt that she is on her way to becoming a shining star in the interior design industry.


What made you want to pursue a career related to the interior design industry”

I’ve always been drawn to the arts, whether it is painting, sketching, art history, or design. Interior design gives you a sense of versatility that can’t really be found in other professions. In addition, I love the fact that you’re able to create a space for an occupant that is best suited for them. As a designer your challenge is resolve an issue for the client and enhance their quality of life regardless of the interior’s function.


What other majors / degrees did you consider / are you considering”

I’ve already obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with a minor in Art History at The University of Houston. It turned out to be extremely helpful, being that presentation skills and the ability to relay your ideas to the client is so important. As far as additional degrees, I would like to attain a Masters degree in Architecture in the future. I believe that it would help me further understand the cohesive relationship that’s needed between exteriors and interiors. There’s no stopping point in regards to learning in this profession; further education can only help me become a better designer and even more of a valuable asset to the firm that I would represent.

How has your design school experience been similar / different than you thought it would be”

Before I began design school, I sensed that I would be surrounded by extremely talented and creative people all of the time, and I was right about that. However, I feared that it would be difficult to stand out among my peers and define my own identity as a designer. Our professors had the ability to find what made us unique and pull that out of us, and we naturally developed our craft from that point on. I knew that interior design would be an exciting and interesting profession, but I was surprised by the field’s versatility. I recently looked at job postings on the IIDA website and there were positions available for museums, fashion design houses, and Starbucks, in addition to interior and architecture firms. What other profession can provide such diversity”


So far, what’s been your favorite course of study”

That’s not fair! So many classes have been instrumental in helping me develop my craft. Obviously, studio is wonderful. Interacting with your peers and your professors in such an informal and personal level is great. You’re exchanging ideas, being critiqued and defending your thoughts and ideas to a jury of professionals and potential clients. I was pushed harder than I’ve ever been pushed and achieved more than I knew I was capable of. I’m a better designer for it.


While you’ve been in design school have you had any internships”

I interned with John-William Interiors in San Antonio the summer prior to my senior year. Getting the internship wasn’t as difficult as some students may think. I just walked in with my resume and asked if they would have me, plain and simple. I had an informal interview with the company’s librarian and started working the following week. I worked closely with the librarian, so I learned about several vendors and textile companies, in addition to placing orders for the designers, and maintaining the materials library. I also had the opportunity to attend client visits with the designers and review plans and construction documents.


Are you planning on taking the NCIDQ exam”

One of the deciding factors when selecting UTSA was the fact the degree plan is CIDA accredited (formerly FIDER accredited). I wanted the ability to practice interior design not just in Texas, but anywhere in the country. Being licensed gives you limitless options, so I’m definitely going to take the NCIDQ exam. After talking to several professionals in the field, I plan on taking the exam in about two years. I want to be able to work in the field and get as much experience that I can in addition to participating in NCIDQ workshops.


Are you a student member of any professional organizations”

I’ve been a student member of IIDA for the past two years, and it’s been extremely beneficial. I’ve attended the organization’s annual Student Day for the past two years, which provided network possibilities, workshops, and portfolio reviews. Our local student chapter is also very active, and I participate in the functions that are held in San Antonio. I definitely plan on continuing with my membership after graduation.


What do you hope to be doing by the year 2013″

I would like to be an NCIDQ-certified interior designer. In addition, I would like to be accepted into a Masters Degree program in Architecture or be studying for LEED certification.

Is there any other information that you would like to share with readers that we haven’t covered here”

Don’t assume that you’ve learned everything there is to know about interior design or architecture. In this profession, our education is ongoing due to new technology, engineering, and materials. Be a good listener; there is always going to be someone who knows something that you don’t and vice versa, so keep your ears open and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Lastly, don’t let your fears or insecurities cripple you. If you want that internship or dream job with a firm, go for it with no hesitation, even if you get turned down the first time. Persistence will get you far.

On a more personal note…

Where are from” Where did you grow up” Where all have you lived”

I’m originally from Michigan City, Indiana. It’s a very small town on Lake Michigan, about an hour from Chicago. I relocated to Corpus Christi, Texas, in the middle of high school, and once I graduated, I moved to Houston to attend The University of Houston.


When do you feel the most creative”

When I meet a potential client and can get a feel for what they are looking for in their space, I immediately want to start sketching and brainstorming. Anything can be inspiring: listening to music, going to the museum, or a concert. Like most designers, I am a visual person, so it’s very easy for me to inspired by my surroundings.


What would you refuse to travel without”

Like most girls, I need my make-up bag when I travel. I’m also a shoe addict, so I usually bring about five pairs with me even if it’s just for the weekend. And music – I need to bring some CDs with me.


What are your three favorite movies of all time”

I’m sure my friends will tease me for this, but I absolutely love Dirty Dancing. It’s my favorite movie. Period. I also love The Color Purple and School Daze (kind of a musical/movie – it’s great).

If you are as impressed with Radiance as we are, then shoot her an email and tell her so: radiance_ham@yahoo.com