by Lisa Mazzola, Director of Education
The Center for Architecture and AIA New York partnered once again to organize the sixth annual Discover Architecture Career Exploration program for high school students in New York City. In 2024, the program saw a surge in interest, with applications rising to 125 for the 2025 session. This led to 37 high school sophomores and juniors from 22 different schools being placed in 18 architecture firms throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Several firms hosted groups of five to six students, with participants representing schools from all five boroughs.
This year’s program consisted of a three-day externship at an architecture office followed by a culminating event at the Center for Architecture, led by Design Educator Breanna Katsman and Director of Education, Lisa Mazzola, which included a presentation from each student sharing their experience. In the afternoon, Kayla Montes de Oca, a Design Researcher and Educator who is a graduate and staff member at The Cooper Union, gave a talk about her career trajectory and answered questions from the students about college and university programs, portfolio development, and alternate pathways to careers in architecture and design.
Although many of the students are able to cement their interests in the field because of the experience, the program’s goal is not only to expose students to the profession of architecture and design, but also to allow them the opportunity to see the types of activities that take place and the varied skillsets that are called upon by firm staff. For many students, the exposure to friendly professionals who were eager to share their professional path was just as valuable, many wishing that they could have spent more time at the firms. A common theme emerged from all the students’ experiences, centered around sustainability in architecture, which led to a lively discussion on the final day at the Center for Architecture:
“I learned many new things, including in-depth information regarding the stages of design, and ‘healthy’ or sustainable materials.”
“I love the way you all perceive architecture, taking sustainability and community needs into consideration.”
“The environment felt so friendly. You helped introduce me to so many things I didn’t know about architecture, and it made me so much more interested.”
Many thanks to the firms and their colleagues who participated in the program. Your energy and enthusiasm are what makes this program a success!
Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, LLP
Students interested in participating in the 2026 program can find more information on the Center for Architecture website. Information on the timeline and how to apply will be posted in September 2026.