She can major in furniture design, or product design, quite specifically. That major is often found at art schools, and at universities with expansive art programs. She can certainly major in architecture or interior design, and take a minor in furniture or product design – may actually be an interesting combo.

If she chooses to study architecture or interior design, she needs to focus on schools that are appropriately professionally accredited in those areas. Otherwise, she may have trouble finding a job afterwards, or have trouble obtaining a license, where that is needed.

While she’s studying the field, she should try to do a co-op or internship. This will not only enhance her portfolio, but it will also give her related work experience, making it more likely that she’ll find a good job when she graduates.

For right now, without experience, she can try to find a job in something somewhat related. I suggest that she look at retail stores as possibilities. If she can’t get a job in retail because she doesn’t have any work experience yet, she should start in food service. Yes, I know it’s not directly related to her future career, but it will give her working experience, and exposure to customers. She can take that experience and later apply to a retail store, and they’ll be more likely to hire her. And food service experience looks fine on a college application.

Her best bet to jump right into retail without work experience is if she has a friend already working somewhere. If they recommend her, employers will be more likely to overlook her lack of experience, and she’d get a jump-start.