An Interview with Vedika Agrawal (Interior Space Design Student) at SID Pune

Symbiosis Institute of Design Pune is a private institute which was established in 2004 at SB Road, Pune and later moved its operations to Viman Nagar in 2006. SID Pune Courses are offered at undergraduate level. Candidates having a valid Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design (SEED) score are entitled for SID Admissions.

SID Pune offers four major specialisations in B.Design course which include Fashion Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Communication and Communication Design. SID Pune Placements recorded the highest package of Rs 18 LPA and average package between Rs 6-8 LPA. SID Pune offers a wide range of facilities to its students which includes labs, studios, seminar halls and more.

Careers360 brings an interview with Vedika Agrawal, a second year Interior Space Design student at SID Pune. Vedika Agrawal shares her onboarding process, campus life and facilities in SID Pune. To get more insights into SID Pune campus life and admission process, go through the interview of Vedika Agrawal below.

Careers360: Tell us something about yourself.

Vedika Agrawal: My name is Vedika Agrawal, and I am currently in my second-year pursuing B.des in Interior Space Design at the Symbiosis Institute of Design. Hailing from Kolkata, a city renowned for its rich art and culture, I developed an early appreciation for artistic expression. Over time, this passion focused on Interior Design, fuelled by my fascination with Architectural Digest and its portrayal of inspiring spaces. Beyond academics, I actively engage in sketching, dancing, playing football, and reading, which enhance my creativity and perspective. I excel in dynamic, multicultural environments where I can exchange ideas, understand diverse lifestyles, and remain attuned to current trends and global developments. These experiences continue to shape my approach to design and collaboration.

Careers360: How did you come to choose your institution/university and what factors were instrumental in your choice?

Vedika Agrawal: I chose Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) in Pune for my Interior Space Design program because of its strong reputation and two decades of design education. Key factors influencing my decision included SID's comprehensive curriculum, which strikes a perfect balance between theory and practice, its experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, Pune's vibrant cultural and professional environment, along with SID's robust alumni network and impressive placement record, further solidified my choice. I believed that SID offered the ideal environment for me to nurture my passion for Interior Space Design and equip myself with the skills to thrive in the industry.

Careers360: What were the salient features of your admission process at your institution/university that struck you as unique?

Vedika Agrawal: The admission process at the Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) stood out for its comprehensive and engaging approach. The best part of the process is it is completely Online so I did not have to travel all the way from Kolkata for every step. It began with the Design Entrance Exam (SEED), which assessed my knowledge and design aptitude, followed by a PRPI Round that allowed me to showcase my portfolio with an opportunity to connect with the faculty and discuss my aspirations. The round also came with a prerequisite of creating a model from a topic assigned, highlighting my creativity and problem-solving skills. Together, these stages not only tested my abilities but also gave me the platform to express my passion for design in a meaningful way. The entire process has step by step guidelines which kept me inquisitive about what next and fuelled my thinking cells.

Careers360: What is your take on the initial days at your institution/university campus considering that it is the time to build contacts, understand the processes? Could you give details on the support given by the institute?

Vedika Agrawal: My initial days at Symbiosis Institute of Design were truly transformative. The faculty are exceptionally supportive, patient, and understanding, providing personalized guidance whenever needed. They carefully laid a strong foundation in design, addressing my doubts and uncertainties. Additionally, we were given the flexibility to explore and interact with classmates from all disciplines which helped us confirm our passion for our chosen discipline.

Careers360: Now that you are a part of your institution/university campus, what in your opinion are stand apart features of the institute that you think are really assets to building a student’s career and future?

Vedika Agrawal: I am deeply appreciative of the experienced faculty at the Symbiosis Institute of Design, who emphasize growth and learning over the pursuit of perfection. Their guidance and encouragement foster a supportive environment where we are empowered to refine our skills and develop as aspiring designers. The institute also prioritizes student well-being by offering dedicated counselling services to support mental health, reflecting its commitment to holistic development. Additionally, SID enriches our academic experience through a variety of cultural festivals, sports and guest lectures by industry professionals. These interactions provide invaluable exposure, bridging the gap between academics and real-world practice while inspiring us to shape our future careers.

Careers360: Could you give details on the industry connection that is inbuilt with the course at SID, Pune and its advantages?

Vedika Agrawal: As a student at Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) in Pune, I've experienced firsthand the institute's strong industry connections through guest lectures, visiting faculties and workshops. I've gained valuable insights from industry professionals, especially understanding and learning from everyone’s journeys. The institute's alumni network has also been a great resource, providing guidance and advice from experienced professionals. Furthermore, SID's international connections have opened up opportunities for International Study Programs and collaborations, broadening my perspective and preparing me for a successful career in design.

Careers360: How advantageous in your opinion is your institution/university alumni network connection and in which ways?

Vedika Agrawal: I believe that my institute's alumni network connection is extremely advantageous, with 3000 plus alumni working globally. The SID alumni network provides a platform for students to connect with experienced alumni who are professionals in the design industry, offering mentorship, guidance, career advice, and job opportunities. Through this network, I've gained valuable insights, learned from their experiences, and developed meaningful connections that can potentially lead to career opportunities, all while being part of a community that provides a sense of belonging.

Careers360: Internships are an integral part of any student’s life. Please talk about the internship process at your institution/university and how they lead to students being placement ready.

Vedika Agrawal: At Symbiosis Institute of Design, I've learned that internships play a crucial role in our learning experience. Although I'm only in my second year, I'm aware that in our third and fourth year, we'll undertake industry internships as part of our degree project. This hands-on experience will provide us with exposure to real-world design challenges and help us develop essential skills. I'm looking forward to this opportunity and believe it will make me placement-ready and equipped to meet the industry's expectations.

Careers360: In a nutshell, could you sum up your experiences at your institution/university?

Vedika Agrawal: My experience at the Symbiosis Institute of Design has been profoundly enriching, characterized by a perfect blend of practical learning, industry exposure, and personal growth. The institute’s experienced faculty have been instrumental in shaping my skills and approach to design, while its extensive alumni network and robust internship opportunities have provided invaluable insights into the professional world. SID’s emphasis on holistic development is evident in its focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, along with prioritizing student well-being through counselling and support services. The vibrant campus life, enriched by cultural festivals and guest lectures by industry leaders, has further broadened my perspectives. These experiences have not only strengthened my foundation in design but also instilled the confidence to navigate challenges and excel in my future career.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by SID Pune and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.