Two Perspectives: Caden + Chris

Below is a Q+A with Caden and Chris to get an inside look at their involvement with the HKS Internship Program.

Caden Rivers — Intern, HKS Dallas

Student at The University of Texas in Austin, pursuing a Master of Architecture degree

Why did you choose HKS for your internship?

I chose HKS for their reputation in innovative design and commitment to sustainability and research. The firm’s dedication to creating impactful and environmentally conscious spaces aligns with my passion for sustainable design. HKS' diverse portfolio, spanning sectors from healthcare to education, provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across various fields. Additionally, the collaborative and dynamic work environment at HKS encourages professional growth and continuous learning, making it an ideal place for me to develop my skills.

What are you working on right now?

I am working on designing a new high school for Thorndale ISD in north Austin. My role involves collaborating with the design team to explore architectural options and create detailed plans. I have had the opportunity to contribute my design ideas and attend client meetings, which has provided?valuable insights into the client's needs and preferences. This experience has been instrumental in honing?my ability to balance creativity with practicality in design.

What part of the design process has been your favorite? Why?

My favorite part of the design process has been conceptual design because it allows for creativity and collaboration while exploring a wide range of?design possibilities. Seeing initial concepts evolve throughout the life of a project that ultimately?become physical buildings?is incredibly rewarding and inspires me to continuously innovate and improve my designs. The freedom to experiment and the collaborative nature of this phase makes it particularly enjoyable and fulfilling.

What are you hoping to learn during your internship?

I am hoping to deepen my understanding of sustainable design practices and improve my technical drawing and design graphic?skills. This internship has provided a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in these areas. Additionally, I have had the chance to learn more about project management and client relations, which are crucial aspects of a successful architecture career. By the end of my internship, I hope to have developed a well-rounded skill set that will prepare me for future challenges in the world of?architecture.??

Chris Box — Job Captain, Associate

Full time employee at HKS Dallas

What sets the HKS summer internship program apart from others?

The HKS summer internship program is truly unique, offering an experience that goes beyond what most internships provide. Our interns get the chance to visit a wide range of project sites, from massive hospitals to some of the largest sports stadiums in the world. This exposure isn't just limited to our Dallas office—thanks to our 29 offices worldwide, interns can gain insights and experiences from projects across the globe.

We believe in making the internship experience as enriching as possible, which is why we host a variety of intern-focused events and learning opportunities. Whether it's taking a watercolor class, attending lunch-and-learn sessions, or participating in collaborative workshops, we aim to immerse our interns in activities that sharpen their skills and broaden their understanding of architecture, interior design, structures, technology, or administration.?

One of the standout features of our program is our dedicated internship committee. As a committee member, I know firsthand how important it is for interns to have someone they can talk to outside of their immediate management. Navigating a firm of our size can be overwhelming, and our committee is here to provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure that each intern has the best possible experience at HKS. We are committed to being a resource and a support system, helping our interns make the most of their time with us.

Why do you choose to be involved with the intern program?

I chose to be involved with the intern program because I have a deep passion for teaching others, aiding in shaping the future of our firm, and learning from the interns themselves. The interns we select today are our future leaders, and their success directly impacts the success of the entire firm. Without new talent and fresh ideas, we risk stagnation. To remain the most influential firm in our industry through limitless thinking, we must identify and nurture the next great talents. By participating in the intern program, I get to contribute to the creation of the next great generation of designers and thinkers, ensuring that our firm continues to innovate and lead the industry. This is why I am dedicated to being a part of the intern program—helping to shape and inspire the future of our firm.

How has being involved with the intern program helped you in your job?

Being involved with the intern program has enriched my job in many ways. The opportunities to learn are endless in our industry, and our interns bring fresh perspectives and new, more efficient methods that they’ve learned in school—things I might not have been exposed to otherwise. This sharing of knowledge is invaluable and inspiring.

Learning new software and techniques from our interns helps make our tasks more efficient and impactful, which is critical to my growth and the firm’s adaptation to the future. Additionally, the site tours are a fantastic learning opportunity, not just for the interns but for me as well. They say no two buildings are alike, and each project teaches us different aspects of detailing and design. I enjoy sharing this knowledge growth with the interns, learning alongside them during these visits. This mutual exchange of knowledge keeps me engaged, helps me stay current with industry trends, and continuously improves my skills.

What advice do you have for current and future interns?

My advice for current and future interns is to never lose your curiosity — always ask questions, talk to people, network, and expand your circle. The design industry is a small world, and the people you meet now will likely cross your path again and again. Kindness, empathy, hard work, and a desire to learn will keep you young, sharp, and ahead of the curve. Help us grow this firm by being the next wave of influence on our future. I hope that what you learn today, you will share with others, contributing to the creation of great design.