MODULE 3: DISCUSSION
Self and Community
Presentation by Tahera Khambata
ABOUT ME
CO-OP
Bennett Design Associates
POSITION
Summer Intern Project Designer
PROGRAM
Honors Bachelors of Interior Design (BPAID)
BACKGROUND
Bennett Design Associates is an interior design firm known for its innovative and sustainable design solutions. The firm specializes in commercial and retail interior design, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces for various clients. They focus on delivering projects that enhance the well-being and productivity of occupants, often incorporating the latest trends in design and technology.
Bennett Design Associates is recognized for its commitment to client satisfaction and its ability to create customized design solutions that reflect the unique identity and needs of each client.
LEARNING ACTIVITY
"WHY
ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS THE FUTURE OF WORK."
Entrepreneurship is fundamental to human survival. Individuals traded skills and resources long before formal job markets existed. Entrepreneurship is not a new concept but part of human nature.
The rapid advancement of technology is reshaping the job market, making it more dynamic and uncertain. This evolution calls for an entrepreneurial mindset to adapt and thrive amidst these changes.
I realized that entrepreneurship is more about a mindset than starting a business. It's about creativity, resilience, and adaptability skills that are crucial in any career.
IMPLEMENTING MY LEARNING
HAVING A FUTURE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET
Use more self-initiative and start small projects or side gigs to practice entrepreneurial skills, such as creating design content or offering freelance services.
Build a personal network of like-minded individuals and mentors who can provide guidance and support both in a professional setting like Bennett, but also in my school life here at Sheridan.
Increase my community engagement by sharing my journey and experiences through blogs or social media to inspire others and participate in local entrepreneurial events or workshops to further develop my skills.
STRENGTHENED MY SKILLS
COMMUNICATION
The competency I believe I've improved the most in this course is communication, particularly in understanding and applying different communication styles, such as assertive, passive, and aggressive communication. This skill is crucial in the design industry, where clear and effective communication is essential for collaboration, client interactions, and project management.
Improved communication skills will benefit my career by enabling me to articulate my ideas more clearly, build stronger relationships with colleagues and clients, and navigate conflicts or misunderstandings more effectively. It also supports my role in managing and organizing projects, such as revamping the material library at Bennett Design Associates, where clear communication was vital in gathering feedback and implementing changes.
OUTSIDE MY COMFORT ZONE
GROWTH AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
During my work term at Bennett Design Associates, one significant experience where I pushed past my comfort zone was organizing and transitioning the material library system online. Initially, the task seemed overwhelming due to the outdated system and the diverse preferences of the design team. However, I took the initiative to create detailed surveys and sought input from all team members. This required stepping out of my comfort zone to engage with colleagues at different levels and assertively present my ideas.
Through this experience, I learned that stepping out of my comfort zone often leads to personal and professional growth. It helped me develop confidence in my abilities, improve my project management skills, and understand the importance of taking initiative and being proactive.
FURTHER DEVELOPING MY SKILLS
CREATIVITY
Try to explore more diverse perspectives by engaging more with my colleagues at Bennett and attending industry events to expose myself to different design philosophies and creative ideas and by experimenting with new techniques by taking on side projects or hobbies that challenge my creative thinking, such as learning new design software such as BlueBeam or experimenting with unconventional materials.
ADAPTABILITY
Practicing being open to new experiences and changes in the workplace. This could involve volunteering for new projects or taking on different roles within the team.