For architectural studies major Isabella Pomponio ’25, an internship brought her classroom learning to life and gave her the perfect introduction to the work, the projects, and the influence of an architect. Her responsibilities at Winter Street Architects in Salem, Mass., allowed her to problem-solve in a professional and highly supportive environment. In addition to building new skills and solidifying her chosen career path, the internship helped her understand the entire architectural process, from bidding on a project to the end of the construction phase.
What was your internship & what were your primary responsibilities?
I interned at Winter Street Architects as an architectural intern. My primary responsibilities included performing site visits, revising drawings for active projects, and selecting materials for office spaces' interiors.
How did your internship relate to your major or career goals?
My internship relates to my major in Architectural Studies because I would like to work in an architecture firm after graduating from Endicott. Winter Street Architects was a small firm, but it was the perfect start to introduce me to working in an office and on active projects.
Can you describe a project you worked on during your internship that you found particularly challenging or rewarding?
My main project during my internship was renovating a National Grid office building. For this project, I visited the site with my boss and took measurements and pictures of the building. I found it most challenging working with the windows on the structure because I needed to completely redesign them while keeping the measurements exact to the existing construction. Additionally, reconstructing the roof on Revit (a software program that helps architects design buildings and infrastructure in 3D) was challenging because this was a new program for me.
What skills did you develop or improve during your internship?
I improved my Revit skills and translated existing buildings into a digital form.
How did your internship help you understand the industry or field you're interested in?
Working in a firm helped me to understand the entire architectural process, from bidding on a project to the end of the construction phase.
What was the most surprising thing you learned during your internship?
The most surprising discovery during my internship was the amount of influence an architect has throughout the entire construction process. Through their wisdom and knowledge, they can impact and create solutions to issues at any given moment in a project.
How did the internship environment compare to your expectations of a professional workplace?
My internship environment exceeded my expectations of a professional workplace because of the team I was surrounded by daily. My colleagues were incredibly supportive and willing to help, allowing me to use problem-solving skills and work through obstacles at my own pace. I hope to have this much support from my future team at my next architectural office.
Did your internship help you confirm or reassess your career path or aspirations?
My internship helped me confirm my career path. While I loved working in a small architecture firm, I would prefer to work in a large-scale design firm that works on all design sectors, including architecture, interior architecture, and interior design.
Were any specific courses or knowledge from your major particularly useful during your internship?
Design studios and media classes were particularly useful during my internship. The design studios helped me conceptualize and turn my ideas into existing designs. The media classes helped me with the computer design software I used during my internship.
How will this internship impact your future job prospects or academic pursuits?
Having full-time experience in an architecture firm will benefit my future job prospects because most knowledge is gained from hands-on experience in the workplace. Working in a firm before I graduate will make me a more well-rounded candidate in the job market.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and knowledge that Winter Street Architects has provided me. Endicott's internship program drives its students to future success, and I'm so thankful that I am graduating with strong internships on my resume.