Alumni

Graduates of the Architecture and Interior Design Programs at College of the Canyons are well positioned for professional careers in architecture, interior design, sustainable design and a broad range of opportunities in the A/E/C (Architecture/Engineering/Construction) industry. Here are a few profiles selected from our program graduates:

Ilyse Kusch, Owner, IK Interior Design Studio

Interior Design, 2016

Earning an AS degree with College of the Canyons was the foundation to setting me up for success in my career as an interior designer. It was there that I learned all the tools I needed and I still count my former classmates as close friends and frequent collaborators, proving that the connections I made there were just as valuable as the education itself.

Rhonda Angell, Owner, Rhonda Angell Interior Design

Interior Design, 2020

I was already a working professional when I started taking classes at College of the Canyons, juggling a full-time job while going back to school for interior design. AutoCAD wasn’t offered in my design program (dark ages, I know!), and enrolling in AutoCAD 160 and 220 at COC completely changed the way I work and has helped me to grow my business. Those classes gave me the confidence and tools I needed to step fully into my design career, and I’ve continued returning to
COC for professional development ever since.

I truly consider myself a lifelong student and am so grateful for the instructors, the courses and the beautiful campus that COC offers our community. If you’re feeling unfulfilled or wondering if it’s too late to follow a different path, I’m here to say: it’s not — this is my third career, and choosing to pursue it has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!

Daniel Lemus, A&D Representative, Benjamin Moore

Interior Design, 2021

My experience in the Interior Design program at College of the Canyons laid the foundation for my career in the architecture and design industry. The support and mentorship from the faculty made all the difference. They pushed me creatively, taught me practical skills, and helped me secure a job before I even graduated. That foundation opened the door for me to explore many paths in the field, including hospitality design, furniture design, resource library management, and now as an A&D sales representative for Benjamin Moore. I’m grateful for the confidence and opportunities COC provided.

Carolina Chavez, Owner/Designer, CSquared Design + Build

Architecture 2014, Interior Design 2016

The education I received at College of the Canyons has proven to be an integral part of my career. Having completed both the Architecture and Interior Design programs, I graduated with a well rounded foundation that empowered me to step into entrepreneurship. I continue to draw from the knowledge and guidance of my professors daily. They inspired me to push the boundaries of this industry and because of that I can proudly say that I am now a published, award winning interior designer.

Heather Aued, Interior Designer + Project Coordinator
Arclogica Architects

Interior Design 2022

COC’s Interior Design program, truly gave me a second career. The professors were top notch and genuinely wanted to see their students succeed. The in-depth education and training gave me the knowledge and confidence to step right into the real world of architecture and interior design. As soon as I graduated I was hired by an Architecture firm and have had the opportunity to work on commercial, industrial, residential and civic projects. It is because of the education I received at COC, that I have been able to thrive in the professional world of architecture
and interior design.