Last summer, Leigh worked at PRG Scenic Technologies. She worked on the shop floor, and got to see how technical drawings were interpreted for a Broadway show. This summer internship really opened her eyes about how design works in areas outside of engineering and the classroom!

Q&A with Leigh

Why did you decide to join MDE/IDES?
MDE has the perfect program for me to focus my studies on the industry where I want to build my career. The entertainment industry is short on engineers who can design around a creative vision. MDE ensures that I will have the technical skills of an engineer with the artistic mindset of a scenic designer.

What is your favorite thing about MDE?
I love the diversity of students we have within our department and MDE classes. Though we are all in the same major, we all have different concentrations. This gives us the opportunity to explore a diverse work environment that we will be exposed to when we leave college.

What are your plans for after graduation?
I want to work in scenic technology for the entertainment industry. This can be in concert touring, Broadway productions, amusement parks, museums, and more. I look forward to exploring the possibilities of interactive scenery for theatre.

How do you define “Purple Squirrel”?
Purple Squirrels are rare, but when they come around to your career fair booth, you can't help but notice them.