LEARN. DESIGN. IMPLEMENT.
The Youth CoLab is an award-winning paid internship for high school students. For 6 weeks, interns are empowered to become the next generation of designers, artists, architects, planners, and more while challenged to learn curiously, design authentically, and implement their ideas practically.
Every summer, we tackle a new project with a new client to enrich the built environment around Columbus.
The Experience
Our interns are introduced to a diverse range of practical skills for professional success in areas ranging from of design to community advocacy.
01
Professional Development
Interns are exposed to resume and portfolio building throughout the entirety of the program. Program coordinators work to sharpen intern's communication skills, confidence, and vocabulary to maximize their professional success. The program concludes with mock interviews to mimic a true professional environment,
02
Design Thinking & Research
Identifying client needs, community attitudes, design precedents, research, and teamwork are emphasized from day one. Interns are engulfed in tasks that are challenging, fast-paced, and engaging similar to that of the Neighborhood Design Center.
03
Design Studio
Interns are placed in teams and tasked with proposing unique design ideas based on client needs. They utilize a multitude of methods such as digital design software, hand-drawing, collaging, model-making, and more.
04
Building/Implementation
At the end of the program, the interns are tasked with the physical implementation of their idea. From painting to assembling, the interns are equipped with the knowledge and experience to see a project from start to very finish.
Voices of Design 2024
Youth CoLab was a 2024 recipient of the Center for Architecture and Design's Voices of Design award. Voices of Design celebrates the impact of design projects, programs, and initiatives in the Columbus community.
Learn more about the Center for Architecture and the Voices of Design Award by clicking below.
2024 Program Support Provided By
Previous
Years
View the impactful work of our previous interns.
EASTLAND'S CANVAS
2024
2023
RAMBLING HOUSE
Questions?
Reach out to the Neighborhood Design Center for any inquiries.
Email | programs@columbusndc.org
Phone | (614) 221-5001.