About
We help international architects & designers thrive in the U.S. market.
Design Path Academy is your shortcut to career clarity, confidence, and strategy as a foreign-trained architect or designer in the U.S. We combine real-world experience, proven frameworks, and personalized support to help you land your dream job and thrive in the American architecture and design industry.
What We Offer:
Online Courses
Self-paced online courses to master your portfolio, resumé, and job search
Mentorship
One-on-one sessions and real feedback from someone who’s been there
A growing community
Of designers from around the world navigating the same path
Strategic materials
Infographics, templates and checklists tailored for international professionals
The Story Behind Design Path Academy
Hi, I’m Marina Araujo — Brazilian Architect, MFA in Interior Design, and founder of Design Path Academy.
When I arrived in the U.S. as a foreign-trained architect, I had to figure everything out the hard way: resumé, portfolio, job search, interviews, visa options, even licensure. I made mistakes, learned fast, and landed offers from top firms like Perkins&Will, Page/EYP, and more—by mastering how to present myself the American way.
Now, I teach others how to do the same—without wasting years trying to guess what works.
I created the Design Path Academy to be the resource I wish I had when I first arrived.
Who We Help
International Architects
Seeking to validate their background and grow in the U.S. (even while still in school or on a visa)
Designers
With or without a license who want to work in interior design, branded environments, FF&E, workplace strategy, and more
Career changers
With creative backgrounds transitioning into the U.S. design market
Why It Works
We don’t teach theory—we teach strategy rooted in experience.
Every lesson, script, and checklist is based on real results from real people (including me). We know the challenges you face, and we’ve built a clear roadmap to help you move forward with confidence—no matter where you’re starting from.
Our Vision
We envision a global community where talent is not limited by borders. At Design Path Academy, we strive to become the leading platform for internationally trained professionals in architecture and design, offering practical guidance, mentorship, and connection to help them thrive in a competitive and diverse U.S. market.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower international architects and designers to confidently navigate the U.S. design industry by providing strategic, real-world education and tools that bridge the gap between foreign training and American professional standards. We exist to turn uncertainty into clarity and help creative professionals build impactful careers abroad—on their own terms.
