Jordan Moroz's practicum experience helped her start her new business, Jem Interiors, and attract clientèle.

The Lakeland College Class of 2021 interior design technology (IDT) graduate completed her practicum with TimberChic Design and Craft & Trade Company, a construction company and retail store in Whitecourt, Alta.

“On practicum, I usually helped customers source materials. While I was helping one customer, we talked about their project, and I offered my design services if they needed them. We exchanged phone numbers, and I've been helping them ever since. It came up so suddenly, but that's how I got my first client,” she says.

Moroz explains many of her program courses easily translated to her daily tasks and responsibilities with TimberChic.

“Everything that we do in school I found was relevant on-the-job, from the software programs to materials and class trips to job sites. Almost everything we learned I found I was doing it in real life. Everything that my instructors taught me is so important, but you don't realize it until you're working.”

Moroz adds that she appreciated the support she received from her instructors in securing her practicum placement. IDT students participate in a two-month practicum (160 hours) in the interior design industry.

Moroz learned of Lakeland early on from attending program information sessions and discovered she could turn her talents in SIMS, a life simulation video game, into a career with Lakeland's award-winning IDT program. Lakeland was named the National Kitchen & Bath Association's College (NKBA) of the Year 2017 and 2019.

“What I enjoyed the most about my program was my rendering courses and seeing my designs and spaces come to life. At Lakeland, the atmosphere is just the best. The people are so amazing and supportive, especially my instructors. It's one big family,” she says.

Moroz shared her Lakeland experience during Live with Lakeland webinar and took part in an Instagram takeover outside of her studies.

Moroz's instructors recognized her dedication to her studies, the program and design by nominating her for the Decorators & Designers Association of Canada's (DDA) Ambassador Program Scholarship Award. She is the first Lakeland student to receive this recognition.

The scholarship includes an accredited DDA membership for one year. The membership comes with access to exclusive industry webinars and professional development resources, which Moroz says she's looking forward to utilizing to grow her skill set and growing business.

“The first thing I did when I activated my membership was looking into the site resources. There are many articles and videos on trending topics that are important for anyone wanting to succeed in the industry. I think this new designation is a great addition to the interior design program.”

Photo: Top - Jordan Moroz, Class of 2021 interior design technology graduate. Bottom - A kitchen design rendering by Moroz.