Emerging Leader Questionnaire 2022

Name: Gold Andrews
Company: TRIA
Concentration: Interior Architecture
College/University: VCU/BAC
Year(s) of Graduation: 2017

What is your strongest personal quality?: 
What is your strongest professional skillset?: The ability to listen to others and take advice. 

Why did you choose to become an Interior Designer?: I originally wanted to be an Architect, but changed course when I saw the show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Seeing how I can help others with design made me realize it was the path for me. 
How would you describe your personal design style?: Super minimalistic

What three things do you most geek out on?: Marvel/DC, Oreos with Peanutbutter, and Tigger - I have a pretty good collection of stuffed animals, mugs, you name it lol. 
What are you looking forward to as an IIDA Emerging Leader?: Getting the opportunity to network and develop relationships with different individuals. 

What has been your go-to for de-stressing this year?: Listening to music. 
What advice do you have for designer students graduating?: Travel and get as much experience as possible. There's so many things to learn from that can cater towards your design. 

What is your favorite annual IIDA event?: The Fashion Show. So glad it's back! 
How would you explain the difference between a professional Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator to a stranger?: Designers create functional spaces within a budiling, while decorators adorn a space with decorative elements.