05/04/2026
✨SENIOR SPOTLIGHT | KARIS MARTIN✨
About Section: Hi! My name is Karis Martin, and I'm from Cabot, Arkansas. I'm a senior IDSN student at UCA, and I am also a part of the track and field team. I chose interior design because l've always had a passion for creating and being hands-on. Growing up, I loved working on home projects with my parents and watching design shows, which sparked my interest at a very young age. Now, after majoring in Interior Design, I am more passionate than ever and hope I can help bring personality and purpose into people's everyday lives.
Awards & Achievements: While being at UCA I have experienced both educational and athletic achievements! For interior design, I received five CIDA-accredited certificates for my work, highlighting the strength and development of my design projects. I also am the school record holder for long jump for the track and field team!I will be graduating with Cum Laude honors, Student Athlete Academic Honors, the ASUN Conference Academic Honors, and a member of the ASID student chapter!
Internship: I interned with Jill Lawrence Designs, where I gained hands-on experience in both the creative and practical aspects of interior design. During my time there, I assisted with selecting materials and final finishes, interacting with clients, and also supporting the final installations. One of the most valuable
parts of my internship was seeing projects come together from concept to completion, which deepened my understanding of the design process and client experience. Jill Lawrence, and her team, taught me so much through this experience, and I couldn't have asked for a better professional to learn from! I will forever look up to her and the business she has built! Thank you Jill! 🤍
Favorite Experience about UCA IDSN: My favorite part about the UCA Interior Design program has been the people I'm surrounded by. The relationships l've built with my peers and faculty have made such a big impact on my experience. The faculty truly care about helping us succeed and push us to become more intentional and thoughtful designers, and I am truly grateful to have gotten to go through this program!
What's next after graduation?: After graduation, I plan to stay local and begin my career in both residential and commercial interior design. I'm excited to continue growing my knowledge through hands-on experience while building connections within the design community. I also hope to travel and explore different architecture and design styles, using those experiences as inspiration in my work. My long-term goal is to keep refining my skills and eventually open my own design business, creating intentional and meaningful spaces!
UCA College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
UCA Department of Art & Design
UCA Interior Design Program
University of Central Arkansas