Building the Future: WHA’s Summer Internship Experience

At WHA, we believe the future of design is shaped by the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem solvers. Our immersive summer internship program is designed to give architecture students hands-on experience throughout the residential design processes, bridging the gap between academic concepts and real-world application.

This year, we were excited to welcome five talented interns, each bringing a unique perspective, skill set, and passion for design. Get to know the individuals who joined us this summer and hear directly from them about their experiences, key takeaways, and how their time at WHA has shaped their journey forward.

Angela Hormaza | Irvine Office| Cal Poly Pamona

Erin Crane | Irvine Office | Cal Poly Pamona

Chris Cantrell | Irvine Office | Cal Poly Pamona

Paisley Pentecost | Irvine Office | University of Virginia

Franz Limpangug |San Ramon Office | Cal Poly Pamona

While each intern brought a unique perspective and passion for design, they shared a common interest in creating places that positively impact people’s lives.

Throughout their time at WHA, our interns engaged in real-world projects that expanded their understanding of the industry beyond what they had experienced in the classroom. Working alongside experienced mentors, interns explored zoning requirements, developed floor plans and 3D models, selected materials and colors, created presentation graphics, and presented a completed residential design project at the end of the program.

Throughout the summer, interns gained firsthand exposure to the residential design process, working alongside planning and architecture teams on real-world projects. They developed a greater understanding of how design decisions are shaped by collaboration, city approvals, budgets, and client goals. One intern had the opportunity to attend a Planning Commission meeting, gaining a firsthand look at how architects respond to questions and feedback in a public setting.

Many of the interns were surprised by the lessons they hadn’t anticipated learning. Several highlighted the value of sketching as a design tool, discovering that quick, iterative sketches can often lead to stronger solutions than striving for perfection from the start. Others gained a new appreciation for the realities that influence decisions, including budget considerations, planning commission approvals, and emerging technologies such as AI assisted renderings.

The mentorship provided throughout the program encouraged interns to embrace feedback, challenge their assumptions, and view design as an ongoing process of refinement.

Beyond the project experience, the interns consistently pointed to WHA’s collaborative culture as one of the highlights of the program. That spirit of collaboration helped create an environment where curiosity was encouraged, ideas were explored and learning and growth happened every day.

 

By the conclusion of the program, the interns left with practical experience, strong technical knowledge, and a stronger foundation to carry into their future careers. WHA is proud to support the next generation of architects as they continue to grow professionally.

 

Abby McSorley