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10 Within 10 Recognition

Autumn Fuchs '10

Major: Interior design

Job: Interior designer and owner of Fuchsia Design, a full-service interior design firm.

Current city: Grand Rapids

Hometown: Grand Rapids

What is your favorite memory of CMU? 
I truly enjoyed my CMU experience to the fullest. From my involvement with the Leadership Institute to loving every interior design class I took, studying abroad in Beijing, China, and the wonderful professors and friendships that were formed during those engagements, my four years at Central were memorable and rewarding.

What has been your coolest moment since graduation? 
It's been a busy and rewarding 10 years since graduating from CMU. I've been honored to be recognized with a number of awards including the Top Female Owned Business in Grand Rapids in 2019 and one of Grand Rapids Business Journal's 40 Under 40 at the age of 29.

What are you proudest of? 
Receiving my interior design certification after passing the prestigious NCIDQ exam, the highest level of interior design qualification in the nation. I was proud of passing this extensive three-day exam after completing the required eight years of education and industry experience.

What advice would you give to new grads? 
If you're not scared, you're not doing it right. Success stems from allowing yourself to be uncomfortable. Being nervous and being excited are actually the same feeling, so don't allow nerves to keep you from growing in your career.

What has your work life taught you? 
As a business owner, it is often assumed I live at the office. I love my business, but I recognized early in my career that it should never be my whole life, and I'm grateful for the balance I've been able to achieve. I work really hard from 9-to-5, and then I go home to enjoy all the other beautiful things in life like my husband and daughter, traveling the world and an active lifestyle.

What about CMU helped you succeed?
CMU did a wonderful job setting me up for success in my career. The interior design program was different than any other I looked at. I'm grateful I was able to combine my interior design degree with construction management and leadership minors, as it greatly prepared me for building a full-service design firm that works closely with the construction industry.