PEA Student Mixer Brings College Students Together from Across Philadelphia to the Center

AIA Philadelphia and the Center for DesignPhiladelphia play a vital role in our design community and the development of future professionals. Within the Chapter is a committee named, the Philadelphia Emerging Architects. They are a key committee for young indiviudals to join to create connections that will last. This committee helps mentor students and young individuals as they navigate the complex nature of the field of design.

To enhance connections between students and the AIA & DP, PEA organized a Student Mixer event this fall during the DesignPhiladelphia Festival, inviting all five design schools in our region: Temple University, Drexel University, Thomas Jefferson University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Community College of Philadelphia. We discovered that while students were actively engaged with the American Institute of Architecture Students and the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students, many were unaware of the Center for DesignPhiladelphia and AIA Philadelphia. Many architecture and design students expressed high interest in getting involved with the local Chapter. They asked questions like "Can students be involved with PEA?", "What are the other committees at the AIA?", and "What's the best advice for a student who is looking for a professional job?" The PEA committee, AIA leaders, and AIA staff had no problem generating answers to their questions. We were thrilled to have such a passionate group of students come by.

The participating universities recognized this event as a valuable opportunity for students to meet one another. It was rewarding to have the time dedicated for young professionals to network with aspiring designers. The event attracted nearly fifty attendees, and AIA Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Emerging Architects are dedicated to keep this event as an annual event.

Thank you to all of the students and young professionals who came out for this event. Special thank you to the Tyler School of Art for supporting this event by providing funds for food.

For more info about the PEA Committee visit their page HERE or email [email protected].