For Olivia Kastor and Lily Declerq, an internship at TMP proved to be more than a semester experience — it turned out to be the start of their architectural careers.

“After graduation, I couldn’t see myself working anywhere else,” says Lily, who completed both a spring and fall semester internship at TMP in 2023. “I actually met with two principals before graduation and asked if I could have a job here.”

A graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, Lily says her internship helped her learn more of the real-world application of architecture versus just coming up with an aesthetically pleasing design.

“In school, we were always encouraged to think about the aesthetic of the space and how you feel,” she says. “That’s important, but here I learned more about functionality and why I was designing something a certain way. We never even heard about things like HVAC systems in school.”

Olivia, who graduated from Virginia Tech School of Architecture and completed a summer internship in 2024, adds that in school, the design was always pushing the boundary because there were no limitations. TMP taught her how to be more creative when restrictions were already in place.

“Working on healthcare projects opened my eyes to designing for accessibility,” she says. “A lot of our projects are renovations or expansions, and you have to start with what’s currently there.”

TMP also taught her more about the project’s end-users and how to adjust designs when needed.

“Being in group meetings with people who actually work in the hospital was really helpful. Learning how to bridge the gap between design and those using the building was something I learned from being here,” she says.

Designing a Career

Lily and Olivia are both now Architectural Designers at TMP. Olivia works on healthcare projects and Lily is on the government team, working on public safety projects for local municipalities. She says she initially thought she would enjoy healthcare, but her internships helped her realize what she did and didn’t like.

“It changed my trajectory. I applied for an internship at TMP knowing that they worked on a lot of healthcare projects. But then I was placed on Jeff’s team and learned all about the nuances of the public safety sector. I wouldn’t change anything now,” Lily says.

Both Lily and Oliva moved from different states to Tennessee to work at TMP — a testament to their internship experiences.

“I think TMP really taught me how to be more confident in the entire design process. Even with moving out here and not knowing anyone, I had to learn how to speak up for myself and ask questions,” Lily says.

As they begin their full-time careers, both designers are eager to keep learning and help future interns to have the best experience possible.

“I had two different internship experiences,” says Olivia. “They were both valuable, but TMP was an incredible experience so there was no doubt in my mind that this is where I’m meant to be. I’m excited to pay it forward and lead by example as a full-time employee.”

Learn more about TMP’s internship experience here. Interested in interning or working at TMP? Send your resume to HR@tmpartners.com.