Internship application processes and experiences vary widely. Hear directly from those who oversee Internship Programs at larger firms. A follow up Real Talk event will feature smaller firms.

1. How can students find out about internships? Are there internships that aren’t publicly advertised?
2. How many openings are available?
3. What are the eligibility criteria?
4. What kind of experiences can students expect during the internship?
5. Can an internship be transitioned into a full time position?

Friday, October 17, 2025

5:30 – 6:30 pm (Pacific)

Virtual Event on AIASF Zoom. This event is free for students but students must join AIASF as members. AIASF offers free membership to students.

Register on AIASF Events page to receive  a Zoom link. To encourage honest conversations, this event will NOT be recorded.

Panelists

1. Jeffrey Stafford, HOK
2. Damian Parodi, Gensler
3. Sarah Kennedy, SCB
4. SOM

Jeffrey Stafford, AIA

Principal, HOK

Jeffrey has a demonstrated history of designing some of the most challenging and unprecedented architectural and urban design projects around the world. His approach to design excellence is through a dialogue with the client, listening to their needs, objectives, and aspirations.

Damian Parodi

Associate, Gensler

Damian takes a holistic view on sustainability that includes not just the environmental aspect, but the social and economic impacts as well. He believes all projects and interventions should grow around this thinking in order to create a more equal environment for all.

Sarah Kennedy, AIA, OAA

Associate, SCB

Sarah has a proven record of managing large and small scale projects from concept to completion. Skilled at communicating, she maintains strong client relationships and acts as a leader within the office and on project teams. She is passionate about sustainable design, equality, and community/context driven design.

The Real Talk series is a platform for the student members on the AIASF board to strengthen the connection between schools and firms. Students determine the topic, prepare questions, and moderate the event. The AIASF student board members are:

– Andreea Muresan, MArch, Academy of Art University

– Salim Ahmed, MArch, CCA

– Luca Magalhaes, College of Marin