Meet Our Student: Madeleine Tickner

What are you studying at Jefferson?

Interior Design.

Where are you from originally?

Paoli, Pennsylvania.

Why did you choose Jefferson:

I chose Jefferson because of its comprehensive learning approach to the built environment. While my major technically focuses only on interior spaces, Jefferson's approach always encouraged us to think about and include all aspects of the building, site, and surrounding community in the design of our projects. Having this much control has not only shaped me as a designer, but also led me to produce more effective designs that positively impact the human experience.

What is the best part of your studies?

The best part about interior design is getting to create and impact spaces people use on a daily basis, as well as seeing the transformation of spaces. This is something I have gotten to see at my internship with One Twenty-One Design and Build, a residential firm in Downingtown, PA. The job is also the perfect combination of art and creativity with collaboration and business!

What is something people would be surprised to find out about you?

I absolutely love running long distances!

Tell us about a project you are working on.

I am currently working on my senior capstone project which looks at ways design can empower communities of poverty to rebuild their life and land. I am designing Kensington Young Adult Program for Building Trades and Community Restoration, a trade school which will teach young adults in the Kensington area building trades centered around restoring and preserving the unique architectural characteristics of the built environment in their own community. Through this approach, not only are the individuals able to rebuild their life through newly acquired job and life skills, but the community of Kensington, one with some of the highest rates of poverty, crime, drug addiction, violence etc., is able to be restored and preserved as well.