ATLANTA- Senior beach volleyball player, Maddie Gordon, was recently accepted to the AECOM mentorship program. AECOM is a global infrastructure firm, which played an integral role in designing the Mercedes-Benz stadium in downtown. 

Gordon was nominated by her professors for this opportunity, which only accepts three or four students each month. The students will begin the first week of July. The mentorship is highlighted by the opportunity to work with industry professionals on their current projects. At the end of the month, the students will deliver a final presentation with product vendors. 

A Texas native, Gordon has been surrounded by design, creativity, and ingenuity her entire life. Her father was an award winning film editor. Meanwhile, her mother worked in business and brand development for her clients. When Gordon came to college she missed being surrounded by and using her creativity. Her sophomore year she switched majors and went into interior design. This is where she has found her passion. 

Each professor in her cohort has helped her advance in her field. Most of them have experience in architecture, but each of her professors has had a different strength. This has helped her receive well-rounded feedback. 

"I have been able to make really good relationships with my professors and peers," said Gordon. "I know they will be people I stay connected with for a lifetime."

After working in the commercial industry for a couple of years, she wants to open her own small practice. She hopes to specialize in residential and small scale commercial projects. As an avid traveler, she hopes to take on projects across the country. 

In addition to building her portfolio and earning President's List honors during the Spring semester, Gordon earned 11 wins with partner Becky Tresham this season, the second most on the team. With her senior season cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she plans on returning to the sand for one final season in 2021. In the classroom she will continue to grow her knowledge in the design field.  

"Everything has really worked out for the best. I will graduate in May with my thesis courses, and I have the chance to represent the best university on the sand for one more year," said Gordon.