What fascinates me about architecture is the multi-disciplinary nature; the complexity of life, environments, systems and flows; the dynamics of movement and the physicality of form; the focus and intention of creative gesture; the influence on inhabitants, life forms; and the potential to evoke, stimulate -transcend. Architecture addresses complexities, and in synthesis allows forces to take form. It also births place - opportunity for experience.

Most of us who are drawn to architecture were probably once moved or inspired by a specific splendid experience of space, a love of materials, getting lost in the act of making, a deep affinity for the environment, etc. These passionate moments of deepening our own sense of self are worth reviving in practice. As individuals, we have tremendous opportunities to learn from each other. Interns, licensed professionals, consultants, clients, etc., enter the architectural practice arena with their own insights and are part of a greater exchange when we speak of space. We have all experienced space and still do in our memories and dreams, in our daily conscious states and in the imaginative realm.

As an intern, it is sometimes overwhelming to think of how much there is to know about nature, design, building, client relations, economics, management, systems, etc. It is important though, to remember the knowledge that we already possess - whether its our own recordings of experiences or other interests that inevitably flow into architecture and continually bring us to new levels of understanding. In keeping with the wonderful exchange of ideas that filled our educational experience and the opportunity to act creatively on thoughts, intuition and share with others, there is no need to succumb to a mundane, mechanical execution of learning about architectural practice. Internship in this profession holds tremendous potential. For example, there are opportunities to extend this dialogue to the public realm, to an audience which may not readily understand the role of architects, the process of design, the complexity of built (and unbuilt) environments and the impact of our environment on our body, psyche, and spirit. The way we relate to and experience ourselves in space is a fantastic phenomenon.

If one approaches the intern experience as a time of gestation, as well as a time for fueling one's interests, following one's passions, nurturing the true spirit that brought one to the threshold of this profession, and extending out and sharing the excitement, then the time can be incredibly enriching and can set the tenor for a profound career. The IDP process, in turn, can serve as a guide - a way to navigate through necessary experiences and a way to invite opportunities that could potentially lead to a greater awareness of truth for each of us in life, form and space.

Besides her work as an intern architect, Tamara Iwaseczko is also the co-founder of FREE.