Registration For Summer 2026 Is Now Open
Choose from One online and Three on-campus sessions for Summer 2026
If you are a high school student or know one who has an interest in pursuing interior design at the college level, make plans to attend one of the workshops in 2026.
The Youth Interior Design Forum (YIDF) is a workshop open to high school students of any grade level and gives them the opportunity to experience interior design firsthand. We also encourage graduating seniors who plan to attend Ball State University in fall of 2026 attend this workshop as well to have a smooth transition to college and have a jump start. The workshop blends tradition and innovation in creative learning, covering areas in applied critical thinking and exploration with materials. During the studio time, students explore the fundamentals of 2D and 3D concepts, learn basic drawing and illustration skills, play with color use and light effects, and learn how interior environments affect human behavior. Upon completion, students will have a portfolio of work (a required component for the application for many accredited college interior design programs) and an official certificate of completion.
"I found this workshop valuable because in a single month I got an inside look on what interior design is, and the process designers go through in transforming a plain room into a gorgeous space that you can’t look away from. From a mission statement to a finish floor plan, you really learn all the steps to complete a project."
- Kayleigh
Forum participants explore the design process, concept development, graphic communication, lighting design, materials and furniture selections/specifications, perspective drawings, and much more. Professors and teaching assistants walk students through the process from the beginning to the end. Students also have the opportunity to learn from industry veterans representing design firms and organizations while creative industry leaders from around the country host guest lectures and Q+A sessions with students.
During the FIELD TRIP day, we visit four design firms and provide participants exposure to both residential and commercial design.
"This workshop gave me an idea of what the Interior Design curriculum is like. I also learned about things that I never would have known until I get into college. The workshop gave me the knowledge to bring into college that my peers won’t have."
- Olivia
Benefits
Why Attend the Youth Interior Design Forum (YIDF)?
Discover, Design, and Prepare for Your Future
If you're a high school student interested in interior design—or simply curious about what it takes to become a designer—YIDF is the perfect place to start. This immersive summer workshop offers hands-on experience, expert guidance, and real-world insight into one of today’s most exciting creative careers.
Top Benefits of Attending
🎨 Build a Competitive Portfolio
Many interior design programs in the U.S. require a portfolio for admission. By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a collection of design work that can strengthen your college applications—especially to accredited programs.
🧠 Get a Head Start on College-Level Design
Learn the fundamentals of space planning, lighting, drawing, color theory, and more. Our studio sessions mirror what students do in real college courses, giving you the skills and confidence to succeed early.
🎓 Feel Confident in Your Career Choice
YIDF gives you a clear picture of what studying interior design is really like. Past participants report feeling more confident about pursuing interior design—and are less likely to switch majors in college.
🤝 Meet Industry Professionals
Go behind the scenes during our field trip day to visit four design firms and meet practicing professionals. You’ll also attend guest lectures and Q&A sessions with creative industry leaders from across the country.
🏫 Smooth the Transition to College
If you’re a graduating senior planning to attend Ball State in Fall 2026, this workshop is a great way to get familiar with our faculty, campus, and design facilities—before classes even begin.
📜 Earn a Certificate of Completion
Showcase your hard work with an official certificate, perfect for resumes, scholarship applications, and college portfolios.
Equally important, this experience will help you make an informed decision before committing to four or five years of college study. This workshop gives you a valuable head start and a clearer understanding of whether interior design is the right path for you. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about one-third (≈ 33%) of first-time bachelor’s degree students change their major within their first three years.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Choose from one online and three on-campus sessions for Summer 2026. Spots fill quickly—register now to secure your place and start your interior design journey!
Examples of Student Projects
Alumni Hillary Jensen shares her experience attending the Youth Interior Design Forum.