The Confidence to Show Up: 2025 Wilsonart Essay Competition…

The IIDA Student Mentoring Program gives students and professionals the opportunity to build community through mentorship. Design professionals are able give back to their communities and have a hand in shaping the future of design. Students get an inside look of what it's like to be a design professional in real time learning the ins and outs of navigating the industry.

The Wilsonart Student Essay Competition offers participants the chance to receive a $1,000 prize for an essay about the experience. Kami Huynh, Student IIDA, currently studying at San Jose State University. When asked about winning the essay competition Huynh had this to say, "I am humbled by this honor! I am grateful to Wilsonart and IIDA for all their support and investment into students and the future of design."

Read the full essay below.

The Confidence to Show Up

Kami Huynh, Student IIDA
San Jose State University

There was a time—not too long ago—when I wasn’t sure I belonged in the design world. As a first-generation college student, I didn’t grow up around designers or know what a career in interior design could really look like. I had ideas and a strong curiosity for how spaces affect people, but I wasn’t always confident in how I fit into the bigger picture. Through the IIDA Northern California Mentorship Program, I was paired with Mary Oliver from Gensler. We had met at a few events before, but during our mentorship, I got to see who she was beyond the title. She shared stories about starting from a small hometown and building a career in a new city, finding her way through curiosity, persistence, and community.

What stuck with me the most wasn’t a portfolio tip or a technical skill—it was how she led with honesty. Mary reminded me that the best thing I can bring to the table is myself. I saw how she used her own story and interests to shape her design path. She even built her portfolio as a website rather than a book—not just to stand out, but because it felt right for her story. She encouraged me to lean into what makes my perspective unique and to not overthink how I “should” show up.

What also stood out was Mary’s long-standing involvement in IIDA—not just attending events, but actively helping shape the community. She had been part of IIDA as a student and naturally stepped into leadership as a professional. Hearing how she stayed involved reminded me that our role as designers goes beyond school or work. It’s also about showing up for each other and supporting the future of the profession. That part really inspired me.

Mary leads with humility, presence, and generosity—something I hope to carry forward in my own way. I want to be someone who contributes to the community like she does: not just by being involved, but by helping create space for others to grow and feel like they belong. This mentorship gave me the confidence to not only find my voice but to use it. I’m learning that good design isn’t only about creativity—it’s also about presence, clarity, and the people you’re designing for. As we plan for an upcoming shadow day with client meetings, a site visit, and some hands-on learning, I’m excited to experience the full scope of design practice—and bring my whole self into it.

Mary’s mentorship reminded me that leadership doesn’t always mean having all the answers. Sometimes it’s about being open, real, and generous with what you’ve learned. I hope to carry that forward—both in my work and in how I show up for others. Because sometimes, confidence comes from simply being seen—and being encouraged to just be you.

Learn more about the Wilsonart Essay Competition

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