Radford University made Nicholson a national contender
Nicholson's design for a subtle, comfortable coastal retreat is a finalist entry in the Sherwin-Williams Student Design Challenge.
When Anna Nicholson received her degree at the 2016 Spring Commencement Ceremony, she was already prepared for life after Radford University.
While her fellow students were throwing mortarboards and taking a well-deserved break, Nicholson had victory on the mind: she was chosen as a top finalist in the 2016 Sherwin-Williams Student Design Challenge, a national contest for young interior designers to show their stuff.
Nicholson credits her success to being part of a dedicated and supportive community at Radford.
"Although it feels great to be an alum now, it's emotional because it has been long nights, busy days and I never thought it would end," she said.
The interior design major, a native of Bowie, Maryland, spent her commencement celebrating, but also looking forward, hoping to use the connections she has made at Radford to begin her professional career.
"I have couple things in the mix," she said. "We have a great Advisory Board in Design and they’re connecting us with employers."
To get that crucial recommendation, students need to be creative and hard working, and dedicated to their community, Nicholson said.
"If you don’t show up, you’ll never experience the opportunities Radford has for you," she said. "There are so many events and opportunities to make friends - not only with people in your classes but with you professors too. So show up."