In November, Aria had the honor of hosting 18 high school students from the Chicago Architecture Center’s Teen Fellows Program at our office. Part of our mission as a firm is to give back to our local community and support the development of future architects and designers. Through opportunities like this, we aim to bridge the gap between education and professional practice, offering students real-world exposure to the architectural field. The event also highlighted Aria’s mission to engage meaningfully with our community, fostering creativity and innovation both inside and outside our walls.
The event was thoughtfully planned by our team to ensure students had a comprehensive and engaging experience. Each activity was designed to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and inspire the students to envision themselves in the world of architecture.
Here’s what the students experienced throughout the day:
Volunteers from the Aria team introduced themselves and shared insights into their roles, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at the many moving parts and diverse opportunities within architecture.
To provide varied and hands-on learning opportunities, the students were divided into groups and rotated through engaging activities.
Project Presentations: Students explored real-world projects, gaining insights into design challenges, strategies, and solutions. We proudly presented samples of our work with both Dave & Buster’s Project and Cooper’s Hawk to show them the inner workings of the project process.
Drawing Set Reviews: A look into technical documentation gave students an understanding of how designs transition from concept to construction.
Office Tour: An immersive look at Aria’s workspace offered a glimpse into the dynamic and collaborative environment where ideas come to life.
The day concluded with a hands-on exercise that encouraged students to unleash their creativity. Divided into smaller groups, they were tasked with selecting materials and creating mood boards based on a black-and-white rendering of a space. With material samples and magazines for inspiration, the students enthusiastically explored textures, patterns, and design concepts. Each group presented their work, showcasing their unique visions and storytelling abilities.
This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship and community engagement. At Aria, we believe in making a positive impact by fostering opportunities for young minds to explore their potential. We were inspired to see the passion and care each team member brought to mentoring the students, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
We are deeply grateful to the Chicago Architecture Center for including us in the Teen Fellows Program and to the students who participated with such enthusiasm and creativity. We look forward to our continued partnership to give young creatives the chance to explore and experience the world of architecture.
