Perkins+Will Interview

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Adriana Enriquez
Interview Questions and Answers
Tell me about yourself?
For the past four years I have been pursuing a Masters Degree in Architecture from the Academy of Art University. I chose to study in order to obtain licensure
and prepare myself as a project designer. The educational process has shifted my interests to how architecture will function with advancements in technology. Architecture
has always been my passion and I believe it has the innovative capacity to create better
environments and communities.
What do you know about our firm?
The firm was established in 1935 by Lawrence Perkins and Philip Will.
Since then the company has grown to a global status where it is recognized for its innovative principles in a wide variety of fields. Some of the notable accomplishments that
interested me were the companys involvement in the development of Dockside Green,
a LEED Platinum certified mixed use harbor community that utilizes high performance
buildings to set a bar for the future. The firm also promotes sustainability in a variety of
ways, such as through the creation of the 2030 Estimating and Evaluation tool which
provides architects the ability to set energy goals in context of the 2030 challenge. Finally a particular project that really highlights the foundation of Perkins + Will is that of
the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, where the architects and the design process focused on the target demographic to create an environment of healing and inclusivity.
Why do you want to work here?

Perkins+Will Interview

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In my job search, I looked at a variety of firms. Your firm was of particular

interest to me because of its creative capacity and the high standards of excellence for
design. The firms holistic approach to complex situations and dedication to social responsibility sets it apart from other firms. I believe that the culture that has been cultivated at Perkins + Will is necessary for the ever changing society we live in.
What can you do for us that others cannot?/What do you think is your best skill?
I have experience as an international architect which required me to be
bilingual, have licensure in Colombia, the use of the metric system, and a cultural
awareness of global trends. Ultimately, my greatest strength is my ability to create
and envision contemporary design solutions that transform the field of architecture in the fields of sustainability and purpose.
What do you look for in a job?
A job provides me to the opportunity to grow in conjunction with the company. I believe that a career creates a mutually beneficial relationship that enables the
possibility of development and the application of the firms ideology.
How long do you plan to stay here?
Ideally, I would like to develop a long term career, but I am always looking
for new challenges to apply my efforts to.
What are your long term goals?/What are your goals for working here?
I would like to become a project designer and a licensed architect in the
United States. As a project designer I would have the capacity to head complex projects
and serve as a mentor to new generations of architects to come.
What trends do you feel are important in Architecture?

Perkins+Will Interview

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In contemporary times I believe that architecture has to form an interrelation to ideals of technology and how those advances influence the sustainability of buildings.
Why did you leave your last job?
I had to leave in order to develop as an architect and as a person. The
company underwent radical changes after being acquired by an engineering firm which
caused the level of challenge to plateau.
What do you feel this position should pay? / How much money do you expect to
make?
It depends on what you believe my level of experience merits. Although salary is
important, my focus is on the valuable opportunity to work with Perkins+Will.
What are your expectations for this job?
I want to be able to work on multi-faceted projects that require me to tailor
a solution specific to the clients needs. I hope to contribute to society by utilizing my
design skills to improve the quality of life.
What is your biggest weakness?
Oftentimes Im extremely critical of myself and the work I produce. Although this may lead to a lack of efficiency, the attention to detail vastly improves the
quality of the design process.
How would you describe your interpersonal skills?/ Ability to work on team?
Im open to collaborating with others throughout a project. This team effort
requires me to apply critical decision making skills while adapting and reacting to the
concerns of my colleagues and clients.

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How do you handle pressure / Stress?

Stress for me provides a motivating force to progress further. Instead of
succumbing to the pressure, I prefer to react and restructure my priorities to fulfill what
is being asked of me.
In what type of environment do you thrive?
Ideally I prefer a collaborative and active work place but I am able to adapt
to a wide variety of working conditions.
How would you describe your skills/qualities?
I believe that the unifying quality of everything I do is my work ethic and
professionalism. I know the implications of taking on a project as a designer which requires me to possess a high degree of severity and awareness of how the building will
affect the user. I fulfill all of the technical requirements necessary for the job, such as
generating and handling construction documents, coordinating consultants, and perform
the administrative aspects of the project process.
Why should we hire you?
My life experiences have contributed to my knowledge of the various aspects of being involved in the field of architecture. After thoroughly reviewing the requisites for the positions available at the firm, I am confident that I am a match. More importantly, I am extremely passionate about architecture and I see no other purpose for
my life than the dedication to this field. This passion fuels my drive and vision which are
parallel to the Perkins + Will ideology.

Perkins+Will Interview

Questions to askWhat will my role be?

What needs are they trying to fill with me?
What are my opportunities for advancement?
What is the pay structure and benefits?

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