I believe words are a beautiful form of communication, but they can only do so much. To me, design forms the connection between learning and understanding. When I began my graphic and interactive design journey, I will admit that I didn’t fully understand what I just started, but I knew that I could use art to create a better understanding, and that was all I needed. Since then, I have been able to successfully use what I have learned not only to form those connections but also to surpass them.
Growing up, learning from a textbook was difficult for me. I would understand the words, but the big pictures didn’t connect. I wanted to create something for kids who did better learning visually, like I did. When tasked to complete an Encylopedia app, I knew I could do more than statically provide information. I have always loved science and wanted to share my passion for the earth sciences through an easy-to-understand, educational medium that visually compels users to want to learn more. I created an app called Surface Level, which teaches young users about historical geology and how the Earth’s surface has changed. When I began designing the look of it, I kept in mind my audience. I wanted it to look like a diorama has come to life, so that it was optically familiar to the users and how they might have engaged with information in the past. But I didn’t just want to teach. I knew that I could go further by testing the knowledge they just learned in a fun way that encourages the users to go back and learn more. In the game, users can unlock objects they have learned about, and they can use those objects to create their environments and see how they change over time. Adding a game gave the app a purpose. When I finished making my app, I felt proud of what I achieved because I knew something like this would have made me excited about learning when I was a kid.
Following my passion in the professional field has led me to Experiential Design, specifically an Exhibition Design. Museums and exhibits provide the unique opportunity to focus on and expand on one idea through all visual forms. I want to walk through my designs and see the real-life effects they have on people. My dream would be to design exhibits for science museums. As a kid, it was always a highlight for me to see what I was learning about in person and to be able to touch and experience what was only described through a PowerPoint. I think design should be used as a tool to enhance every experience. I will achieve that with the expertise and knowledge I have gained at West Chester University.