At Heritage School of Interior Design, we celebrate the stories of bold individuals who transform passion into profession. Two of our recent alumni, Emily Schultz and Alison Needelman, epitomize what it means to pursue your dreams fearlessly. Their journeys serve as an inspiration to aspiring designers everywhere, showing that with the right education and a fearless mindset, anything is possible.
Emily: From AirBnB Design to Professional Interior Designer
Emily’s passion for interior design began unexpectedly. While helping a friend decorate an AirBnB, she discovered a love for creating beautiful, functional spaces. That project sparked something inside her, and she knew interior design was her calling. Emily began searching for design schools and found Heritage School of Interior Design, a place that aligned perfectly with her goals.
“The hands-on experience with mood boards, design boards, and my portfolio preparation at HSID gave me everything I needed to feel confident,” Emily shared. “The portfolio I developed during my time at school was instrumental in landing my current position. I wouldn’t be where I am without it.”
Today, Emily works as a Design Coordinator at Mountainwood Homes, gaining valuable experience and actively pursuing a promotion to become a full-fledged Interior Designer. Even though she’s only three months into her role, Emily is learning at a rapid pace and taking full advantage of every opportunity to grow.
Alison: A Leap of Faith from Event Planner to Interior Designer
For Alison, interior design was more than a childhood dream—it was a leap of faith and a reinvention. After a fulfilling career as an event planner and with her children grown and her husband frequently traveling for work, Alison found herself reflecting on what her next chapter could be. It was during a visit to Contract Furnishings Mart to help her mother with a kitchen remodel that inspiration struck. The experience reignited her creativity, and she realized that interior design was her calling.
Determined to follow this new path, Alison took a bold step and attended an informational interview at Heritage School of Interior Design. “Having Heritage on my resume was a game-changer,” Alison says. “It gave me credibility and opened doors to incredible opportunities.”
Now, as a Designer at Mountainwood Homes, Alison finds immense satisfaction in her work and the relationships she’s built. “I love my clients,” she shares. “They are so appreciative, and being able to help them—like restoring their home after a windstorm—makes my work incredibly rewarding.”
Alison’s journey from event planning to interior design exemplifies the courage it takes to pursue a new passion, even in a different stage of life.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing the Details
Both Emily and Alison expressed how much they’ve grown, not just in creativity but also in technical skills. “I didn’t realize how much computer work and attention to detail interior design requires,” Emily admitted. Alison agreed, emphasizing the importance of balancing creativity with precision. Their time at HSID provided them with the tools they needed to thrive in the demanding and ever-evolving field of interior design.
A Heartfelt Message to Future Designers
When asked what advice they would give to future students, Emily and Alison shared a powerful sentiment: “Savor every moment while in school! Take advantage of all the opportunities.” Both women highlighted the importance of building connections and using every resource available at Heritage to prepare for success.
Their gratitude for their education and the community they found at HSID is evident. “The connections we made during our time at Heritage School of Interior Design are invaluable,” Alison said. “They have not only helped us find job opportunities but also given us a support system that continues to inspire and encourage us.”
Your Journey Starts Here
Emily and Alison’s stories are a testament to the transformative power of education and the courage it takes to pursue your dreams. At Heritage School of Interior Design, we prepare our students to step boldly into the world of design, armed with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your passion for design or you’re ready to make a career change, the journey begins with a single step. As Emily and Alison have shown, with the right education and a fearless attitude, anything is possible.
Are you ready to “go for it” and build the design career of your dreams? Explore our programs and discover how Heritage School of Interior Design can help you turn your passion into a profession.
Stay connected with Heritage School of Interior Design to hear more inspiring alumni stories and see where their journeys take them next!