Chloe started as a Moseley intern in 2024, first assisting the firm’s construction contract administration team before working as a civic design intern this summer. She is currently studying as a fifth-year student in the Architecture and Civil Engineering Dual Degree program at The Catholic University of America. As she pursues her career in design, she envisions creating spaces that enrich lives by merging functionality with creativity.
Why did you choose to study architecture?
I wanted the unique experience of being able to view the built environment from different perspectives, understanding both the design and technical aspects.
What building typologies are you most interested in?
I have worked almost exclusively with civic and institutional typologies. However, I am very interested in working on a residential or mixed-use building.
Is this the first time you’ve done an internship?
No, I have been in the AEC industry for about four years. I interned under two general contractors before working for Moseley. Here, I began as a construction contract administration intern in summer/winter 2024 before becoming a design intern this year.
How did you learn about the internship?
I did a lot of research on architectural firms in the Richmond, Virginia area and stumbled upon Moseley’s internship page.
If you had to describe your Moseley intern experience using three words, what would they be?
Collaborative, skill-building, and impactful.
What are some of the assignments you’ve been given?
I have done a wide variety of tasks at Moseley. During my construction contract administration internship, I was reviewing submittals, making regular site visits, participating in weekly OAC (owner, architect, and contractor) meetings, and prepared as-built drawings.
Now, as a design intern, I help with construction documents, design development sets, modeling in Revit, and researching design options.
Did you encounter any challenges during your internship? What did you learn from them?
Almost every day I encounter some sort of challenge, whether it’s a term or task I am unfamiliar with, or a challenge with Revit/Bluebeam. Fortunately, my supervisors (past and present) have always made me feel comfortable asking questions or diving deeper into my curiosity about a subject. Once I move past a challenge, I am able to learn and store the knowledge and grow professionally.
How has the actual experience differed from your expectations of it?
I came to Moseley from a very small general contractor in Charlottesville, so I was a bit wary of joining a much larger firm. However, the Moseley community is truly amazing. Their collaborative culture and open communication have made my experience much more engaging and has helped me create so many connections throughout the company.
How would you describe your experience working within the civic sector? Did you work in any other sector during your internship?
I have worked on a multitude of projects within the civic sector, including fire stations, police stations, justice facilities, and courthouses. I have been able to learn more about the functional needs of each building, as well as the different safety and security features. I have also worked within the K-12 sector.
Have any of your assignments required you to collaborate with any non-architects involved in design (ex: engineers, interior designers, sustainability coordinators, etc.)?
Yes, while being a construction contract administration intern. During that time, I had to review and distribute submittals for various projects, so I was able to communicate with engineers, interior designers, architects, and sustainability coordinators. I was also given the opportunity to participate in multiple interior design meetings (finishes, furniture, etc.) for many projects.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned or the best advice you’ve received during the internship?
Never stop asking questions.
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