About 30 students from Portland Public Schools and New Avenues for Youth participated in Design Week Portland this April through a new partnership with PWA.

“From branding to architecture to fashion to video, (students) got to interact with creative professionals who are making exciting work and see the range of opportunities available in design,” Design Week Portland organizers explained in their official recap.

The PPS students who attended came from five high schools and self-selected based on their interest in design. You can see student feedback below.

Student ratings of the day:
Excellent: 65%
Good: 35%
Disappointing: 0%

Student comments:

•  “It was so inspiring to hear from various artists who are making their dreams happen.” — Marin J, Grant High
• “Getting to see all of these creatives in their spaces was so eye-opening to me.” — Maya L, Franklin High
• “I knew that an architect created ‘plans’ for a building … but to see an awesome building like the one I visited was awesome!” — Isabel C, Alliance High
• “(I learned) to start your portfolio as soon as possible and always draw out your ideas anywhere.” — Amir R, Lincoln High
• “I very much enjoyed everyone’s space we entered because it inspired me and it was very motivating to create something similar for myself. Plus everyone was so welcoming.” — Wysteria C, MLC
• “It was really fun! I felt like I saw all aspects of design and it was really interesting.” — Mia B, Franklin
• “Got to meet and learn about topics that I’ve been interested in, and see what needs to be done to help me pursue this degree.” –Eli P, Franklin  High
• “Really fun to actually be able to visit places and talk to people working there.” — Heidi O, Grant High
• “It inspired a lost career path of mine. I have been with obsessed with others, but today’s career day reminded me that design is something I would like to do.” — Anthony, Grant High

Students who said they would consider working at one of these studios someday: 88%

Students who said they gained insights that would help in any career: 96%