EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology Interior design students recently earned the top three awards in the Student Rendering category in the annual Configura Awards, a national competition sponsored by the Swedish software company Configura. 

Seniors Raneem Alani took first place, Hollyann Moody claimed second, and Izabella Rachel secured third. 

With guidance from EMU Assistant Professor and Interior Design Undergraduate Program Coordinator Diane Guevara, Ph.D., the students used CET Designer—a state-of-the-art, highly visual software tool—to create detailed, realistic 3D renderings of their interior design projects. 

“Being able to translate their designs into a virtual reality experience demonstrates the incredible potential of CET Designer to transform interior design education and practice,” said Guevara. “This competition gives our students a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of creativity and technology, and it’s rewarding to see their hard work recognized at the national level.”

During the competition, Alani faced challenges academically and personally but, prevailed through the competition.

“I aimed to expand my design boundaries by experimenting with new techniques, which sometimes led to technical setbacks. However, each challenge taught me valuable lessons, helping me grow, learn, and embrace life’s realities, said Alani."

“Dr. Diane was instrumental throughout the competition. Her guidance was invaluable, particularly in providing constructive feedback and helping me approach the design from new perspectives. Her support made a significant difference, and I truly consider her the ‘mother’ of this four-year journey in our major,” said Alani.

CET Designer enables users to easily plan, visualize, and modify designs for complex environments. The competition challenges participants to design functional, aesthetically compelling spaces, emphasizing innovation, problem-solving, and the practical application of the software.

The Interior Design program continues to provide students with the tools, mentorship, and real-world experiences needed to excel in a rapidly evolving field.

“I’m so proud of Raneem, Hollyann, and Izabella for their outstanding achievements,” said Guevara. “Their success reflects not only their individual talent and hard work but also the strength of our program and the dedication of our faculty to preparing students for the future of design.”

EMU’s Interior Design program integrates cutting-edge software like CET Designer into the curriculum, ensuring students are equipped with the latest industry tools and technologies. By emphasizing both creativity and technical proficiency, the program prepares graduates to meet the demands of the ever-changing interior design landscape.

About the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology
The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology provides world-class experiences in engineering, cybersecurity, aviation, construction management, autonomous vehicles, drone technology, aviation, and other areas of study in high-demand career fields in engineering and technology. It is within the college’s mission to cultivate individuals' intellectual and personal growth through research-informed education and diverse programs that emphasize the practical application of scientific knowledge. For more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, visit the college’s website at gameabove.emich.edu.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, EMU is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.