Sometimes the right path isn’t the easiest one. It requires courage, hard work, and a willingness to trust yourself even when the future feels uncertain.
For Heritage School of Interior Design student Sydney Mortenson, pursuing a career in interior design meant embracing change, balancing multiple responsibilities, and taking a chance on a dream that felt too important to ignore. Today, she’s building the foundation for a career she loves and discovering just how much is possible when you choose courage over comfort.
Tell us about your background.
I was born and raisedin Louisville, Kentucky. When I was 18, I decided to leave my friends and family and move to Utah. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art and Design from Utah Valley University about two years ago.
After graduating, I worked as a freelance graphic designer and in social media marketing. While I enjoyed being creative, I eventually found myself feeling unfulfilled. I couldn’t see a clear path forward, and I knew I wanted a career that felt more meaningful and aligned with my passions.
Outside of design, I love traveling. I spent a semester studying in London and have pretty much made it my entire personality. I also minored in Art History, love getting lost in museums, enjoy reading and sewing, and am always looking for opportunities to experience something new.
Why did you decide to pursue interior design?
I took every interior design elective available while I was at UVU and absolutely loved them. Those classes sparked something in me, but they felt more introductory than career-focused. I knew I wanted to pursue interior design seriously, but I wasn’t sure how to take the next step.
Then I found Heritage School of Interior Design in Salt Lake City.
Enrolling was probably one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever made. I signed up just one week before classes started, and looking back, I’m so grateful I did. From the beginning, it felt like exactly what I was supposed to be doing. For the first time, I could clearly see a future that excited me.
What challenges have you had to overcome to get where you are today?
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school with work. Throughout my education, I’ve often worked multiple jobs while pursuing my goals.
There have been plenty of long days spent in class followed by hours at work, but those experiences have taught me resilience, discipline, and perseverance. While it hasn’t always been easy, every challenge has helped me become stronger and more confident in my ability to handle whatever comes next.
What has your experience at Heritage School of Interior Design been like?
HSID has been the perfect fit for me.
The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, the coursework is hands-on, and the site visits provide invaluable real-world experience. Every part of the program feels connected to the realities of working in the design industry.
What stands out most is how prepared I feel. Even after just one semester, I’ve gained practical skills, industry knowledge, and confidence in my abilities. The combination of technical training and real-world exposure has given me a strong foundation for a future in design.
What are your plans after graduation?
This summer, I plan to pursue internships and opportunities throughout the design industry. My goal is to gain as much real-world experience as possible and continue learning from professionals in the field.
Ultimately, I hope to secure a full-time junior designer position where I can continue developing my skills and growing my career.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is:
“Do it scared.”
To me, that advice isn’t really about fear. It’s about courage.
There will always be moments when you question yourself, feel uncertain, or wonder if you’re ready for the next opportunity. The important thing is not letting those feelings stop you from moving forward.
Some of the most meaningful growth happens when you’re willing to take the next step before you feel completely prepared. Every challenge, every project, and every new experience becomes an opportunity to learn and build confidence.
Choosing courage has opened doors I never would have experienced otherwise.
What are your long-term career goals?
I would love to spend time working for a design firm and learning from experienced professionals in the industry. There is so much knowledge and expertise to gain, and I’m excited to continue growing as a designer.
Eventually, my goal is to start my own residential interior design business, creating spaces that are both beautiful and meaningful for the people who live in them.
A Future Built on Courage
Sydney’s journey is a powerful reminder that meaningful careers are built one brave decision at a time. From moving across the country to pursuing a new professional path and balancing multiple responsibilities while in school, she has consistently chosen growth, learning, and possibility.
Her story reflects what makes so many HSID students successful: a willingness to work hard, embrace new challenges, and believe that the future can be bigger than what they imagined.
Sometimes the most important step isn’t knowing exactly where the path leads. It’s having the courage to take the first step and trust yourself along the way.