From Banking to 3D Design. A Bold Leap into a Lifelong Dream
For Alaa Aldosari, interior design has always been more than an interest. It was a dream she carried from high school. When the subject wasn’t available to study at the time, she pursued English Literature and later built a successful career in the banking sector. But her passion for interiors never faded. In a courageous move, Alaa left the security of banking to join the National Design Academy, first completing the Diploma in Interior Design and then progressing to the Interior Design Software course. Her goal? To master the technical tools that would transform her creative vision into professional-grade designs.
Today, her story is one of fearless reinvention, skill-building, and staying true to a long-held dream. Read on to discover how Alaa’s journey from finance to 3D modelling is inspiring her next big step, and could inspire yours too!
What first sparked your passion for design?
My passion for design began back in high school, but at the time, design wasn’t available as a major, so I went on to study English Literature and later worked in the banking sector. However, my love for interiors never faded. Last year, I made the bold decision to quit my job in banking to finally pursue what truly fulfils me – a career in interior design.
I enrolled in the NDA Diploma course, and this year I continued with the Interior Design Software course to deepen my technical skills. It was the best decision I’ve ever made, and I’m proud to be following my high school dream of becoming a unique interior designer.
Who is your biggest design inspiration?
I wouldn’t say I have one specific designer who inspires me. Instead, I’ve spent years watching, learning, and being inspired by a wide variety of talented designers from around the world. Their different styles, techniques, and creative approaches have helped me shape my own unique way of seeing and creating design. It’s through this exposure that I’ve developed a style that truly reflects who I am.
How would you describe your design style in 3 words?
Modern – Eclectic – Earthy
What made you apply to the National Design Academy?
I did extensive research before choosing NDA, and I was impressed by the flexibility of the learning structure, the quality of the course content, and the supportive tutors. It gave me the opportunity to study what I love while balancing it with my personal and social life, which made the learning journey enjoyable and sustainable.
What’s the most unexpected thing you have learned from the course?
The most unexpected thing I’ve learned is how much I’ve developed technically. When I first started the Diploma course, I found freehand drawing, layouts, and measurements quite challenging. But I pushed myself to improve and stepped out of my comfort zone. During the Interior Design Software course, I had no prior experience in SketchUp, AutoCAD, or renders, and yet, I managed to create my first fully detailed 3D model and render.
It’s just the beginning, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited to keep learning and refining my skills even further.
What has been your favourite course module and why?
My favourite module has been the SketchUp module. It’s where I truly discovered that I could take things to the next level. It revealed a new strength in me and gave me the confidence that I can actually do this. Being able to visualise my ideas in 3D and bring them to life felt like a game-changer in my design journey. It marked a turning point where things started to feel real and achievable.
What’s your favourite project that you’ve worked on?
One of my favourite projects was the Larson family project in the Diploma course. It was my very first real design experience.
The moment I started truly feeling what it means to design with a purpose and respond to a client brief. It sparked something in me, and I’ll never forget how it made me feel. Another project that stands out is from the Software course, where I took a big leap.
I started from scratch – learning AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape rendering, and Photoshop, and ended up creating a complete 3D model on my own. That moment felt like a turning point in my journey.
What advice would you give to potential National DesignAcademy students?
Let your passion lead the way!
If design is something you truly love, then trust that you can achieve amazing things. Even if you’re starting from zero. With the flexibility of the NDA’s learning structure and the incredible support from tutors, you’ll feel encouraged and capable every step of the way. Believe in your vision, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. The growth you’ll experience is real and worth it, both personally and professionally.
Now/when you’ve just finished your course, what are you doing next?
Right now, I’m focusing on practising and refining my technical skills in SketchUp, AutoCAD, rendering, and visualisation — because with practice, you grow stronger and more confident. Next, I’ll be continuing my studies with the BA in Interior Design at NDA while applying for jobs in the field. The flexibility of the BA programme makes it possible to study and work at the same time, which is a great way to gain real-world experience. Eventually, my goal is to start my own interior design business — after gaining valuable experience working with clients and developing my style even further.
Start Your Interior Design Journey With Us!
Alaa’s story shows how determination, skill development, and the right support can turn a long-held passion into a professional pathway. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upskilling like Alaa, NDA offers flexible, tutor-supported courses to suit your lifestyle.
