Reflection Letter:
Hello everyone, my name is Alma from Brawijaya University, interning at RAW in my 7th semester. Initially, I took this internship not because I was fully confident in the field of architecture, but more as a way to survive in a major that often made me doubt myself and my abilities.
The year 2025 was the hardest year of my life. I lost my grandmother, the person who raised me, shaped my perspective on life, and was my biggest reason to keep going. Her passing left me feeling lost, unmotivated, and even lacking the spirit to continue my studies. During that time of grief, I decided to return home and chose an internship as a way to slowly stand up again, with one simple hope: to be in a safe, warm environment that wouldn’t drag me down further.
Choosing RAW was not an easy decision, as some said it would be difficult to do while writing my thesis. However, as time passed, I realized that this was not just a decision, but a fate and God’s wonderful plan. These past five months I spent at RAW became one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.
Arriving with very limited skills and knowledge, I was afraid of being judged, afraid of being questioned about what I had been doing during college that made me seem incapable of doing anything. However, what I received was the opposite. I was met with patience, clear guidance, and an incredibly supportive environment. Here, everyone can be a mentor, from team leaders to other designers, all willing to share their knowledge, tips, and experiences without making us feel small. Each team at RAW has its own character, expertise, and warmth, which makes the learning process enjoyable and meaningful.
Thank you so much Kak Joshi, Kak Kamil, Kak Rizka, Kak Nielson, Kak Revi, Kak Gabby, Kak Riyan, Kak Zikri, Kak Shaf, Kak Tim, Kak Edho, Kak Kenn, Kak Zyadi, Ci Mei, Ci Gaby, Kak Ingrid, Kak Aul, Kak Yus, Kak Chai, Kak Ikhsan, Mas Beng, Kak Novi, Kak Tyo, Kak Adit, Kak Ufi, Kak Jocelyn, Kak Arlyn, Kak Sisca, Kak Putra, Kak Ala, Kak Ezra, Kak Acha, Kak Irfan, and Kak Mel. It may seem like a long list, but each of you contributed to an environment that was consistently warm and welcoming. Thank you for teaching me so many things, sharing your experiences and life insights, also telling funny and absurd jokes. every interaction I experienced felt warm and memorable, and will be cherished as my core memory.
My fellow interns also played an important role in this journey. Thankyou to Aisyah, Edel, Wawa, Feli, Kak Ahlal, Raniya, Bobby, Dimas, Farid, Kak Hasan, Shadiq, Kak Avi, Gantari, Fezka, Friendly, Kak Bima, Novell, Kak Faizal, Kak Putri, Kak Vita, Helen, Kak Hasna, Kak Shylla, Kak Manas, Kak Jomul, and many others I cannot mention one by one. Amidst the pressures and challenges of my first internship, their presence made the days feel lighter, whether through work discussions, helping each other out, or simply joking around while deciding what snacks to buy. Thank you for being a safe space and friends to grow with. Everything felt more fun because of you guys, and I wish you all smooth and kind journeys ahead.
My deepest gratitude goes to Kak Rich and Kak Yudith for creating such a warm and humane working environment. At RAW, I learned that architecture is not merely about buildings, space, or profit, but about stories, meaning, and how a space can speak to people. I was able to truly understand this through RAW’s works themselves. This perspective answered the question I had carried for so long: why choosing architecture?. Thank you once again for the opportunity and for all the valuable experiences. I sincerely wish Kak Rich and Kak Yudith continued happiness, health, and blessings. May every step and responsibility be carried out with ease and grace. May Miracle and Heaven grow into wonderful individuals, and may all their good dreams come true. I hope we can meet again in the good moments God has planned.
Thank you also to the rest of RAW DOT OMAH team, and a special mention to Bibi who always prepared us delicious food. I will always remember your amazing dishes. Wishing you health and happiness always, Bibi.
In closing, this internship journey began as an attempt to survive. But I am returning home with something far more valuable, which is understanding, confidence, and new hope. I look forward to all the great things RAW will continue to create and the positive impact it will bring to many others. Thank you, thank you, thank you, and see you at the top of the world!
Motivation Letter:
–
My Mayonnaise Jar 