A Young Designer's Best Experience

I saw this photo and found myself nostagic regarding my experiences at this office and their impact. I noticed how concentrated I was into listening to David Nagahiro during this presentation. I was enjoying the moment and thanking God for working in such a place. Some of my first and best experiences in the practice of architecture came from working at CBT architects. My position as a young Operations Support offered many opportunities to learn about the business yet it did not limit the exposure and involvement in amazing design reviews, presentations and production. From the top down, everyone treated me like I was someone and not just a production member. I have learned from my many experiences that this is something rather rare. After leaving the office, I learned to value and cherish those experiences and maintain professional connections with the team. They are still after several years, happy to help and offer feedback in whichever question I might have. My path to becoming an urban designer and a well rounded architect are indeed possible and enriched thanks to the opportunities they gave me. My mentors are still my mentors and the boundaries of whether I work there or not matter less than the desire to help and contribute to others growth. It is an admirable desire to serve before self and to treat others like an end rather than the means. Let this be an example for other designers and offices regarding the positive impact they have. We (young designers) value these experiences.