i can't speak intelligently about som-ny but i can talk about my own interview experience. for the interview, i really see it that i'm interviewing THEM. i tell them about my portfolio and i gage their reaction against the research i've done about the firm. you shouldn't be embarrassed to ask the tough questions. you want to make sure they're a good fit with you, the same way they want you to be a good fit for them. lot's of discussions here talk about those tough questions (insurance, advancement, opportunity for design, mentors, leadership, how they operate as a firm, continuing education, benefits, compensation, etc.)

my two cent's, for what it's worth.

you might try checking the feedback at InsideArch.

thanks devil dog and archinect. i've since tried inside arch but they have nothing for the ny office [the chicago office sounds really bad]

devil dog, i'm afraid of making those questions because i'm foreign and will fall into the visa sposorship category... a scary place to be. this is also why i need to look at big corporate offices since they're the only ones that are able to sponsor due to costs, lawyers, etc.

I know people that worked there (about 2 years ago) and they don't have anything good to say. A sweatshop.