Intern Insight: It Takes Two

As they study for their Master of Architecture degrees, Yeisy Batista Perez and Angela Madrigal applied their classroom skills outside of the college’s walls when they interned with Manhattan-based architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF).

From November 2024 through March 2025, Batista and Madrigal shadowed architects, gaining insight into real-world architectural practices, professional workflows, and design-thinking processes. As their internship began, the two were eager to see how design concepts are applied in practice and how technologies shape contemporary architecture. Their time at KPF fulfilled these desires tenfold.

During their five months at the firm, they took part in presentations and hands-on workshops, explored model making using 3-D printers, learned rendering techniques with the artificial intelligence-powered software D5 Render, and immersed themselves in virtual reality design walkthroughs.

They both agree that while learning new technical skills was inspiring, the most memorable parts of their internship were unexpected moments on-site to witness projects underway. A trip to 520 Fifth Avenue, one of KPF’s skyscrapers under construction, left a lasting impression on Batista and Madrigal as they saw firsthand the façade being installed. They also had the opportunity to tour the lower levels and up through the 64th floor, exposing them to a perspective on architecture and construction that they hadn’t yet encountered in the classroom.

“Experiencing something coming together high above the city and surrounded by the energy of active construction was unforgettable,” they echo. “The building’s arched windows and uniquely engineered aluminum façade to mimic limestone showed us how modern materials can be creatively used to reference classic architecture.”

The internship instilled in Batista and Madrigal a deeper appreciation for the complexity and scale of professional work. As they look ahead to future opportunities, they will forever remember the learned importance of observing and understanding the full scope of a project from concept to construction.

“Working at KPF allowed us to see how design concepts and theories are applied in real, professional projects,” they reflect. “We were able to connect our academic learning to practical skills needed in the field. It strengthened our passion and provided guidance on how to grow as future architects.”