Hi everyone! My name is Eva, and I’m beyond excited to share that I’ll soon be moving to New York City to begin a one-year internship with O’Neil Langan Architects. This opportunity marks the beginning of a completely new chapter in my life, one that I’ve been dreaming about for a long time!
The first time I visited New York, I was 15. That trip left a mark on me that I’ve never really shaken off. I remember being completely in awe of the city’s energy, scale, and diversity. This city truly felt like the center of everything. Since then, I’ve carried this quiet ambition: that one day, I’d live and work there. So being able to return now, not as a tourist but as a young architect ready to learn and grow, honestly feels like a dream come true.
To give you a bit of background: I’m originally from Spain, where I completed my architectural studies at CEU San Pablo University, in Madrid. Over the past few years, I’ve been fortunate to gain some practical experience through some summer internships in different studios, but I’ve always had the desire to challenge myself further and immerse in a different culture. I’ve always believed that architecture is not just about buildings, but it’s also about people, places, and experiences, and what better place to explore that than New York?
Before starting this process, I had my doubts. I expected a long and complicated road to landing an opportunity abroad. Between the paperwork, time differences, and uncertainties about finding the right firm, I wondered if it would even be feasible. But then I discovered Architect-US, and that changed everything.
I found Architect-US through a friend who had gone through the program a year earlier, and after a little research, I decided to reach out. From the very first email, the team was incredibly helpful, professional, and genuinely supportive. They not only helped guide me through the J1 visa process, but they also connected me with firms that aligned with my skills and goals. Without them, this opportunity would’ve been so much harder to achieve, and definitely more stressful.
I was lucky enough to be offered a position at O’Neil Langan Architects, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Their focus on retail and high-end commercial architecture resonates with me, and I’m eager to be part of their creative environment and contribute to impactful projects.
But more than anything, I’m looking forward to learning, not only about architecture but also about life. I want to explore the city, discover new neighborhoods, meet new people, and be exposed to perspectives I’ve never considered before. This year will be about professional growth, yes, but also about personal discovery. I want to return home not just with a stronger portfolio, but with a broader mind and a deeper understanding of the world.
To anyone thinking about pursuing a similar path: it’s worth it. The fear and uncertainty are real, but so is the reward. I’m incredibly grateful to Architect-US for helping make this happen, and I can’t wait to share what I learn along the way.
