As a third-year architecture major, Dhruvi Jain frequently dives deep into the world of design and creativity. Not only in her studies, but during her work at the Performing Arts Center (PAC).
From setting up the lobby and moving accessible seating to greeting and guiding visitors or scanning tickets, every shift is about making things run seamlessly. It’s a behind-the-scenes effort that brings the magic of the performances to life.
Jain recently stepped away from her role at the PAC to talk about her hometown, goals after graduating and an important life lesson.
What do you hope to do with your degree?
I want to create architecture that truly matters- spaces that tell stories, breathe new life into historic structures, and make people feel at home. My goal is to repurpose the old, infuse it with purpose, and design places where communities can thrive, connect and find comfort.
What do you like about your job at the PAC?
Oh, where do I even begin? This job is so rewarding! I get to meet incredible people every day and contribute to making their time at the shows comfortable and memorable. The best part? The team! The staff and ushers are genuinely the kindest people. Plus, the flexibility of the schedule is a lifesaver-it fits perfectly with our busy lives as students, offering both weekday and weekend shifts. It’s a job that truly supports us, and I couldn’t ask for more.
Are you from San Luis Obispo? If not, where are you from, and how did you end up here?
I’m from Bangalore, India, a vibrant city full of energy, culture and endless charm. Moving to SLO County was a leap into the unknown, driven by my dream to study in Cal Poly’s renowned architecture program. Once I arrived, I fell in love not just with the program, but with everything about this place. The stunning landscapes, the welcoming community, and the slower pace of life have made it feel like a second home.
Where would you rather be right now?
Sipping chai on a balcony in Bangalore during the monsoon rain, watching the world slow down as the city comes alive with the sound of raindrops. Pure bliss.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Trust the process.” Whether it’s a design project or life itself, this advice reminds me to keep going, even when things get messy or uncertain.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
That growth happens outside your comfort zone. It’s scary at first, but every time I’ve stepped out, I’ve discovered something incredible about the world and about myself.
What tops your bucket list?
Building a secret treehouse in the middle of a rainforest, where I can sip hot chocolate while watching wildlife and listening to the rain. Bonus points if it’s accessible only by a rope bridge or zipline.