Olivia, Class of 2020, is studying interior architecture at New England School of Art and Design.

Q: How would you describe the culture at Hutker?

A: There are definitely a lot of individual personalities and a lot of creativity that people bring to the table. The main thing I love about the culture and the office is that even though everyone has their own personality and aesthetic, they can collaborate and work together to create one cohesive image. It’s a trusting culture as well. Being an intern, I wasn’t expecting the amount of responsibility that I was given.

Q: How did you find this internship and why did you choose Hutker?

A: Stacy and Sarah both went to NESAD and a professor of mine said that a couple of old students of hers had contacted her and asked her if she had any students that she had recommended for an internship. I ended up going to the career fair that Hutker had a booth at and having a great conversation with them both. They walked me through a bunch of project binders and some of the work they were currently doing.

Q: How did this internship match your expectations?

A: It exceeded my expectations. As an intern I wasn’t expecting to get the kind of opportunities I’ve had since getting here. I thought there was going to be a lot more observing, but it’s been a very hands on experience. There is a lot of trust put into us interns which has been very rewarding.

Q: What was the most beneficial experience or your favorite project for you at HA?

A: I think just getting to do this internship at all has been beneficial. For a little while I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to because of my Visa. But so far, I’ve been doing a lot of renderings and just being able to understand and get a better grasp on the architectural process has been valuable. This one project I’ve been working on this summer has had a lot of creative licensing involved so the renderings and custom furniture for that project really helped develop my skills.

Q: Based on your experience, what do you think it takes to be successful at HA?

A: I think that you have to throw yourself into every single opportunity that presents itself to you and not allow yourself to have any self-doubt. They are putting so much trust in you, even if you are nervous you have to just go for it and trust yourself.

Q: If you were to give an incoming HA intern any advice, what would it be?

A:  I would say to show your personality a little bit. There are a lot of personalities here and its easy to get a bit intimidated by that, but everyone is trying to help you. You just have to be yourself and have some fun in the meantime. It’s a great opportunity living in a place like this and working for a firm that is as unique as Hutker, so I would say to also be confident enjoy the island while you’re here and make the most of your time.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

A: I love going to the beach. I think the majority of my time off is spent in the sun and every weekend I’ll be there. I used to be a city girl but now I think I’m a beach girl.

Q: What’s your favorite part about living on the Vineyard?

A: Well, kind of like I said before, I love going to the beach so having it so easily accessible has been great. Before this internship, I had never been to Martha’s Vineyard, so living somewhere new for the summer has also been exciting. It’s been cool getting to explore the island.

Q: Do you feel more prepared to enter the field of design after spending your internship with Hutker?

A: I do. I think my skills have improved greatly since I got here, more so than the 18 months since I’ve been at school.  I wasn’t afraid to ask questions and ask for clarification. Everybody is more than willing to help out and share their knowledge.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share?

A: I just want to share how incredibly grateful I am for this opportunity and I want to thank Hutker for the amazing internship experience I had.