Julianne is a 2015 graduate with a BS in Interior Design and a minor in Entrepreneurship. She recently returned to Jefferson as an adjunct professor and is pursuing her Master of Architecture degree.
Where are you from originally?
I’m from the Greater Philadelphia area but grew up in rural Maryland, where my parents still live.
What has having a Jefferson degree done for you, and how has it prepared you for your career?
My education was technical, practical and accredited, which gave me the foundation I needed to step into a full-time role right after graduation. I had the skills to immediately contribute in a design firm environment.
What was the best part of your time at Jefferson?
The connections I made with students, faculty, staff, alumni and the university community. Those relationships grew into lifelong friendships, career opportunities, creative collaborations and so much more!
What are you doing now?
I currently work as a freelance interior and architectural designer while also running my own education-focused business. In 2023, I founded Design Success Network to provide accessible, affordable NCIDQ exam prep resources for interior designers. We support individuals, students, firms and professional associations across North America and beyond.
I am also pursuing a Master of Architecture degree and logging my experience hours toward architectural licensure. Most recently, I returned to Jefferson as an adjunct professor, teaching Building Technology to sophomore architecture and interior design students.
What does it mean to you to be honored with Jefferson’s Young Alumni Award this year?
I am truly grateful for this recognition. Achievements often come from countless hours of work behind the scenes, and this award reminds me why that effort has been so meaningful. It motivates me to keep striving to make a positive impact in my profession and community.
What’s something people would be surprised to find out about you?
I am an avid skier and hold an avalanche safety certification. This semester, my students asked me to be the faculty adviser for a campus ski and snowboard club – something I would have loved to be a part of as a student! I am looking forward to mentoring these students while also sharing my passion for winter sports.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to our current students?
Community is EVERYTHING. Networking is about building genuine relationships. Those connections have supported me throughout my career, whether I was looking for a job, looking to hire or looking for inspiration. My Thomas Jefferson University (PhilaU) community has always been there.