PRACTICAL INTERNSHIP AT MAIKA: FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE

Figure 01: Students of Viet My College at Maika Joint Stock Company – Showroom D7 [Image source: Marketing Department – Maika]

PRACTICAL INTERNSHIP AT MAIKA: FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE

Ho Chi Minh City, June 10, 2025 – The internship for Interior Design students from Viet My College at Maika Joint Stock Company was a success, marking an important step in connecting academic theory with practical industry experience. Maika, one of the leading companies in providing tile and paving material solutions in Vietnam, has opened the door for future generations of architects to access and gain a deeper understanding of this fundamental material.

Tiles: More Than Just a Material – An Aesthetic and Functional Solution

In the context of contemporary architecture and interior design, tiles have transcended their role as mere building materials. They have become an essential element, shaping style, creating focal points, and reflecting the identity of a space. From traditional ceramic tiles to high-end porcelain products, the diversity of materials, sizes, patterns, and surface effects of tiles today offers countless choices for designers.

This diversity is the result of continuous research and development by pioneering manufacturers like Maika, along with remarkable technological advancements. Each type of tile possesses unique technical characteristics, suitable for specific functional areas within a building, from high-load-bearing floors and waterproof wall surfaces to decorative areas requiring high aesthetic appeal. Understanding these characteristics is a prerequisite for interior design professionals to ensure optimal functionality, durability, and aesthetic value of the project.

Figure 02: Vietnamese-American students examining the glaze on tiles [Image source: Marketing Department – Maika]

Discover the Production Process at Maika: A Testament to Exquisite Craftsmanship

The internship at Maika provided students with a firsthand look at... modern brick manufacturing process. Although it was not possible to delve into the most detailed stages of a factory in operation, through the guidance of Maika experts, the students gained a clear understanding of the complex and professional process of creating a high-quality brick.

This process begins with Prepare the ingredients The raw materials, including clay, feldspar, and silica sand, are carefully selected and processed to achieve uniform purity. This is followed by the final stage. creating brick blanks Using a hydraulic press with high pressure, the bricks are shaped to achieve the desired density and precise dimensions. Afterward, the brick blanks undergo a process of... drying Strict temperature and time control are necessary to remove moisture.

One of the crucial steps in terms of aesthetics is glazing and pattern printing. With the application of advanced digital printing technology, Maika is able to reproduce countless patterns, from imitation natural stone to realistic imitation wood grain, bringing unlimited variety to the product. Finally, the process brick firing The process, carried out in industrial kilns at extremely high temperatures (typically above 1200°C), is a key factor determining the hardness, durability, and water resistance of the product. The entire process is strictly controlled to ensure that every Maika tile leaving the factory meets the highest quality standards.

Figure 03: Students experience smoothing the surface of tiles [Image source: Marketing Department – Maika]

Maika: Pioneering in Elevating the Value of Materials in the Design Industry

The internship also provides an opportunity for students to gain a clear understanding. The role and position of Maika Joint Stock Company In the Vietnamese tile and paving materials market, Maika is not just a product supplier; they are a leader, constantly innovating and providing high-quality material solutions while keeping up with the latest design trends.

Through intensive training sessions conducted by Maika's experts, students are not only introduced to the products but also equipped with knowledge about them. detailed technical specifications of each type of tile and methods for selecting optimal materials for each specific space and design style. Concepts such as durability, water absorption, coefficient of friction, abrasion resistance, and color variation were clearly analyzed, giving students a comprehensive understanding of material selection criteria.

By providing analyses of trends in large-format tile application, diverse material combinations, and the use of tiles in unconventional spaces, Maika has contributed to shaping and enhancing aesthetic taste in the Vietnamese interior design industry. This collaboration demonstrates Maika's commitment not only to providing products but also to training and inspiring the next generation of designers.

Figure 04: Students are discussing the structure of the brick layer [Image source: Marketing Department – Maika]

The Importance of Practical Internships: A Foundation for Professional Competence

The internship at Maika is compelling evidence for this point: Practical training is a key factor in enhancing professional competence.. This is an indispensable bridge, helping students transform theoretical knowledge into practical experience and application skills. Direct exposure to production processes, products, and professional work environments provides students with a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the industry.

These experiences not only supplement knowledge about materials but also hone critical thinking skills and the ability to select materials that meet the technical and aesthetic requirements of each project. This is invaluable preparation, helping future interior architects become more confident when entering the competitive job market.

Figure 05: Students are discussing the surface structure of tiles [Image source: Marketing Department – Maika]

Viet My College, with its educational philosophy of "Choose Difference – Choose Success," always prioritizes internships and practical experiences to equip students not only with solid knowledge but also with practical skills and experience. The internship at Maika is a prime example of this educational orientation, affirming the importance of the link between the school and businesses in training high-quality human resources.

Maika Joint Stock Company deserves our sincere thanks for providing the necessary conditions and dedicated support for this meaningful internship. Collaboration between educational institutions and businesses plays a crucial role in building a generation of competent professionals, ready to meet market demands and contribute to the sustainable development of the interior design industry.

Author: Design Department - Date written: June 23, 2025

Category: College 9+, Student life, DESIGN GROUP, Interior design, Career information, Education news, News - Events