Alumni Spotlight: An Interview with Amara Goodwin
Amara Goodwin stands out as the first alumna to join the faculty at Berlin International, now serving as the Head of Program for both the MA Interior Architecture/Interior Design and MA Interior Design. Her journey from student to educator is both inspiring and unique, marked by a rich academic background and a deep passion for research and teaching. Amara's extensive practical experience and continuous pursuit of knowledge have allowed her to make significant contributions to the university's curriculum and student experience.
Transition from Student to Educator
Q: How did you transition from being a student at Berlin International to becoming the first alumna to teach at BI?
The journey from student to educator at Berlin International has been somewhat unexpected, yet deeply satisfying. My academic background in art history and fine art has always included an interest in architecture and design. Along the way, I developed a deep passion for research. An advertisement for BI (BAU International University at that time) on the U8 saved me from moving all the way to Melbourne to pursue a bachelor's degree in interior architecture and design.
After a few years in the professional world, I began to miss the academic environment and the thrill of research and decided to pursue a master's degree. Immersing myself in research once again was incredibly fulfilling. I intended to continue with doctoral research in Belgium, but Covid squandered that plan. Shortly after, I was presented with the opportunity to teach at BI.
For me, teaching has become a deeply enriching career step. It has offered the unique opportunity to share my passion and knowledge, while also inspiring curiosity and creativity in students. My experience as a competitive athlete and coach taught me the rewards of mentoring, which has translated seamlessly into this role. The intimate and dynamic environment at BI, where close relationships can be formed and changes can be implemented quickly, makes it a unique place to work.
Rewards of Teaching at Berlin International
Q: What do you find most rewarding about teaching at Berlin International?
The most rewarding aspect is having intimate access to how students think about our discipline and getting to see how their creative thought process develops. Providing students with tools to deepen their academic and professional pursuits, whether in design or research, is extremely gratifying. There is nothing I enjoy more than discussing ideas. Helping students form their own is one of the best things about teaching.
Additionally, understanding and supporting students' individual needs is incredibly important to me. Having struggled as a student myself, I appreciate the importance of adapting teaching methods and assignments to fit different learning styles.
Influence of Academic Background and Practical Experience
Q: How did your academic background and practical experience shape your teaching philosophy and approach to curriculum development?
My extensive time as a student has greatly influenced my own teaching philosophy, both in terms of content and approach. While at the same time, my experience working as an interior architect has provided first-hand insight into how the concepts we teach are applied in the real world. Drawing from theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and my own research interests, I try to take a comprehensive approach that is constantly evolving.
My current research looks at ideation and communication in interior architecture and design. Our discipline has a rich history, intertwining architecture, decoration, and design. I am exploring ways to develop concepts, communicate ideas, and represent designs that draw from a broader interdisciplinary foundation. By experimenting with these methods and observing their impact on students, I am hoping to create a more informed and meaningful design process. For example, emphasizing that every design decision needs an anchor point can help students develop parameters for making informed decisions. This research-driven approach enriches my teaching, and (hopefully) helps students to apply theoretical knowledge to their future careers and practices.
Hot Tips from Amara Goodwin
Amara shared some essential tips for students and aspiring professionals in the field of interior design. Here are her top recommendations:
Stay curious and keep your interests active: If you enjoy learning, don't hesitate to pursue further education - even if it means sidestepping into a seemingly unrelated field. Keep growing your knowledge and academic skills. Unexpected opportunities often arise from diverse experiences.
Engage with like-minded individuals: Whatever your passion may be, reach out to organizations and connect with others who share your interests. Engaging with like-minded individuals can open many doors. If you love researching, don’t stop just because your studies have ended.
Take advantage of available resources: My door is always open for BI graduates. Whether it’s discussing ideas for your own research, next steps in your design career, or portfolio advice - I am always willing to make time for these conversations. Stay open-minded and proactive, and let your passion guide you.
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