Yearning for the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, nineteen year old Stephanie Melfi's constant schedule of events has left her with little downtime. However, when she takes a moment to observe the world around her, Stephanie realizes she is living her dream. In her second year of NYSID’s BFA program, in between classes, Stephanie interns at Bentel & Bentel Architects where she is absorbing an immense amount of knowledge on all aspects of design.

What led you to choose NYSID over other design schools?
Although I grew up on Long Island, the hustle and bustle of New York City was always where I wanted to be. With goals of becoming a licensed Interior Designer, I knew attending an accredited college was extremely important and as soon as I walked through the doors of NYSID, I knew this was where I belonged.

What have you enjoyed most about your program at NYSID?
NYSID instructors cannot stress enough that the city is our campus! Class trips to museums and job sites are key to fully developing as a designer, and these are the things I have enjoyed most so far.  The BFA program has been amazing and I cannot wait to see what else it has to offer!

Can you tell us about an "aha" moment you have had as a student at NYSID?
Being that I work and attend school full-time, I rarely have a minute to myself without thinking about the next thing on my to-do list. My “aha” moment happened when I looked around and the realization that I was currently living my dream hit me. Hard work does pay off if you keep pushing the limits, and by embracing all the small goals I set as a designer, I feel victorious every day.

What are your plans post-graduation?
Since I am only in my second year, I plan on getting the most out of my experience here at NYSID! Truthfully, as I enter my second year I am more eager than ever to explore different avenues of design so that when I do graduate I can choose the correct path.  So as of now, post-graduation will be spent designing things that I am passionate about and will leave my mark on the world.