Caroline works as a mechanical design intern in Moseley’s K-12 sector. Hailing from Chester, Virginia, she brings strong competence in math and science, fueling a natural curiosity in how things function from the inside out. This inclination led her to pursue a career in engineering. As a recent graduate, she hopes to continue broadening her understanding of the design process and the impact it can make.
Why did you choose to study architecture?
Going into college, I had a pretty good idea that engineering was the right path for me—I like how it combines practicality and creativity. I later decided to study mechanical engineering because it is such a broad field with endless opportunities to explore.
What building typologies are you most interested in?
I am most interested in building technologies related to green building solutions and energy-efficient systems design.
How did you learn about the internship?
I was introduced to Moseley during my junior year of high school through a random connection with Scott Hasforth, a design technology specialist in the firm’s Richmond office. After mentioning that I was applying to schools for mechanical engineering, he told me about Moseley’s engineering opportunities and even helped connect me with my current supervisor to schedule a shadowing day. We kept in touch after that, which is how I later learned about Moseley’s internship opportunities.
If you had to describe your Moseley intern experience using three words, what would they be?
Instructive, rewarding, and engaging.
What are some of the assignments you’ve been given?
I have been given assignments like modeling existing mechanical systems, designing new systems, performing building load calculations, and making equipment selections.
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Did you encounter any challenges during your internship? What did you learn from them?
Learning how impactful design choices really are was challenging. It has been incredibly eye-opening to see how something that seems like a minute detail affects many other factors and disciplines later on. Though it was difficult to anticipate the bigger picture at first, I learned how crucial it is to always think ahead and broaden my perspective during design.
How has the actual experience differed from your expectations of it?
I was not expecting to be working on actual projects for Moseley, so having that opportunity really exceeded my expectations. Working on real, active projects right alongside the team offered a very realistic introduction to this job and industry.
Have any of your assignments required you to collaborate with any non-architects involved in design (ex: engineers, interior designers, sustainability coordinators, etc.)?
Yes! Most of my day-to-day collaboration is with other engineers, but there is frequent collaboration between different disciplines. In my role, this mostly involves architects.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned or the best advice you’ve received during the internship?
Although I have learned so many things during the internship, the most valuable thing I’ve learned is that this industry can make a huge impact on the environment and on the community. It has been so empowering to see new buildings bring people together and meet new sustainability initiatives, showing the effect innovative design has on the world around us.
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