Ravi Singh is having a full circle moment. The San Francisco-based interior designer and instructor in UCLA Extension's Interior Design Certificate program was, not so long ago, on the other side of the classroom.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing from San Jose State University and landing his first job, Singh quickly found that a career in business wasn't the right fit. In 2020, he started studying interior design at UCLA Extension and soon realized he had found his calling. He earned his certificate and went on to finish a master's degree in interior architecture from Cal State Polytechnic Pomona, and has since worked on designs for clients in the public and private sectors.

Singh credits UCLA Extension with enabling his career pivot. Looking to give back, he became an instructor in 2023. We asked him about the transition from student to teacher, and what advice he gives aspiring interior designers in the current marketplace.

This interview has been edited for clarity and concision.

What was your experience as a student at UCLA Extension?

One thing I really loved was how diverse the student group was – there were people from the East Coast, LA, and I was here in the Bay Area. We even had classmates from Canada and some joining from overseas, like India! It was amazing to see architecture through so many different lenses, influenced by various cultures and cities. Having all these perspectives really enriched the learning experience.

What made you decide to go into interior design?

I’ve always had a real passion for interior design. Walking into a space and observing a human-built environment is such a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. There’s something truly special about being immersed in a place that’s been carefully designed – it’s inspiring and just kind of magical.

Back when I was studying business as an undergrad, my friends would often catch me commenting on the designs of restaurants, hotels and shopping centers we’d frequent. They’d say, “You’re so creative! Have you ever thought about going into design?” And I’d think, “Yeah, I have, but I’m not sure how it would all play out.” Eventually, I just decided to take the leap, even though I didn’t know exactly what would happen. And honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.

How did you decide to become an instructor? 

I never really planned on going into teaching when I started my design career. Honestly, all I knew at the time was that I wanted to dive into studying design and make a career out of it. It wasn’t until I took a class called Design Communication I during my first quarter at UCLA Extension that everything changed. I had a fantastic instructor who noticed how I was always talking to my classmates and helping them out offering advice on their drafting techniques. It was just my way of making friends and helping peers, but he saw something more in it.

One day, he asked if I’d be interested in becoming a TA for the course. He offered me my first design-related job as student and I ended up doing that for quite a while during my certificate program. I found myself learning more by helping other students with their assignments. That’s when I realized I really enjoyed teaching. After I got my master’s degree, I was asked if I’d be interested in teaching my own section, and from there it just took off in such a rewarding way.

What advice would you give students who aspire to work in the interior design industry?

We have a lot of students who are career changers, and being a career changer myself, I totally get that feeling of wanting to dive in quickly. I remember thinking, “I need to get my foot in the door, land a good job, and start earning a good salary – right now!” But what I’ve learned along the way is that this whole process is a journey. There’s so much more learning and growth that happens even after your design education. So, my advice to students is to not rush. Slow down, savor the experience. When you truly enjoy what you’re doing and put passion into your work, opportunities will come naturally. Just take your time and enjoy the ride.