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Design Your World (Overview)

Design Your World

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Design the Future.

Design Your World (DYW) is a free, two-week summer program for creatively-minded high school students. Created to close the gap in representation within the design industry, this education pathway program provides exposure to the possibilities of a career in design for students who may not otherwise have access. We’re investing in a vibrant future for our industry and promoting positive change.

Design professionals teach the basics from fundamentals and practices through classroom and studio work, guest speakers, and field trips to local firms, design projects, and showrooms. Supplies, lunch, and a stipend are provided to students as they learn from industry professionals, visit real studios, and build their portfolios.
Come learn what it’s like to be a designer from the inside out.

Want to learn more about participating? Visit our Student, Parent/Educator, and Sponsorship pages for more information!

Dallas-Fort Worth: Register here!
June 1-12, 2026 at Texas Christian University

Chicago: Register here!
June 15-26, 2026 at School of the Art Institute Chicago

St. Louis: Register here!
July 6-17, 2026 at Washington University

Miami: Register here!
July 20-31, 2026 at Florida International University

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Spots Are Extremely Limited Apply Now!
Only 25 students are accepted per city. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Application Deadlines:
Dallas/Fort Worth: May 22
Chicago: June 5
St. Louis: June 26
Miami: July 10

Applications will not be reviewed prior to 4/30/26

Through Design Your World, a diverse group of students will be empowered to fully realize that careers in design and the creative arts offer unlimited potential. Perhaps most importantly, that design is truly ‘accessible’, meaningful, and relevant in their lives.

Quote

IIDA EVP and CEO Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA

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Throughout the program students:

• Gain mentorship from industry professionals
• Have studio time and creative collaboration
• Learn about college pathways and types of design-related careers
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And learn:

• How real designers think, sketch, and plan spaces
• How creative careers actually work
• How to collaborate, present, and critique ideas
• How the built environment impacts people, culture, and communities

Proof of Impact:

"This program motivated me on what I can do in the future. And to make new friends and learn different perspectives from others."
-Adam Iovuta, DYW alumni

"I knew this program was going to be challenging ... it also made me think about how in the future I can do something I love for work!!"
-Bessie Karaca, DYW alumni

"A program like this helps kids see their future possibilities. When asked about her future nowadays, she declares, 'I am going to be an interior designer' with the self-assurance that comes from actually knowing and appreciating her own abilities. DYW gave her more than just inspiration ... it gave her identity!"
-Darnell Moore, DYW parent

Don’t see your city or want to learn more? Contact DYW Program Manager, Sheena Lewis, at slewis@iida.org.

Press

2026 Presenting Sponsor

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2026 Supporting Sponsors

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With Support From

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Hear from Students