People
Halle Schrank: a BOLD Designer
As a new grad within the world of interior design, Halle Schrank wanted to find her footing. “There was something daunting about being out of school for the first time in my life. I was wanting to educate myself, discover available resources, and lead with more confidence in my career.” BOLD (Building Our Leaders in Design), a program put on by the Indiana Chapter of IIDA, is helping her to do just that.
BOLD was designed by principals and firm leaders from across Indiana. Open to young designers (between 2-5 years of experience in the industry) who want to pursue future leadership roles within in the design community, the 10-month program meets monthly and covers topics on courageous communication practices, marketing and networking, speaking and presentation skills, and managing projects and people.
With a limited number of applicants accepted and just shy of the minimum experience requirement, Halle wasn’t sure if she would make the cut. “I remember seeing the newsletter from IIDA and wanting to apply, but being so fresh out of school I was worried that I wouldn’t be chosen.” Still, she felt a strong draw towards the opportunity, so she reached out to a BOLD board member who encouraged her to give it a go.
“There was something daunting about being out of school for the first time in my life. I was wanting to educate myself, discover available resources, and be more confident in my career.”
Since being accepted, Halle has not only gained knowledge in the topics covered, she’s also gained confidence in knowing what kind of designer, teammate, and leader she wants to be in her field. “It’s been a great opportunity to be surrounded by designers going through similar things that I am and finding my voice in the Indy design community.”
The program finishes up in October. Once complete, graduates can act as mentors to the incoming class of BOLD designers and serve on IIDA Indiana committees where their leadership skills will be further developed—something Halle is looking forward to. As she likes to joke: “I got involved because I wanted to be BOLD!”
Learn more:
IIDA Indiana