022: Designing for Healing with Julia Savas

In this episode, Rachel chats with Julia Savas, a fourth-year interior architecture student at San Diego State University, about following a clear design calling, discovering a passion for healthcare and wellness spaces, and finding confidence as an emerging professional in the San Diego design community.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

1. How a fifth-grade dream became a focused path in interior architecture
2. Why personal experiences in healthcare spaces shaped Julia’s design lens
3. The gap between design school and business—and how internships help
4. How students are actually using AI in their projects
5. Julia’s advice for new design students: say yes, show up, and let your interests evolve

About Julia

Julia Savas is a senior graduating this semester from San Diego State University’s School of Art and Design. A four-year ASID member, they studied architecture abroad in Florence and gained hands-on experience as an intern with Humble Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. As they prepare for post-graduation, they’re embracing the transition from student to emerging professional; pursuing certifications, licensure, and meaningful connections within San Diego’s design community, with a long-term focus on healthcare architecture.

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