Reflecting on my 4-year journey at University of Florida, my involvement in the International Scholar Program (ISP) has been fundamental to my career and academic development as a cross- cultural designer. My aspiration to become a Graphic Design and International Studies (Asia-focused) student did not solidify until my second year in college. Fast forward to the freshmen orientation and course selection time in 2021. I wanted to take International Studies classes as I enjoyed learning about political structures in different countries in high school. However, my interest in Graphic Design also grew as my friend and I designed infographics on Instagram to raise awareness on anti-Asian racism during COVID-19. I decided to take classes for graphic design and international studies to get a sense of both majors before making a definitive choice, a decision I’m forever proud of making. In my pursuit of connecting with my cultural identity and finding a sense of community, I also became involved with programming in various campus initiatives, including Asian Kaleidoscope Month and the UF Center for Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement. Soon, I found my design, critical thinking and event programming skills I learned from my academic courses and global experiences to be inseparable as knowing the cultural context and background helps me understand how to tailor my design process and design for the community.
Through my international studies and design courses taken at the University of Florida, I not only developed a proficient technical skill in design, but also fostered a strong critical thinking. From courses such as International Studies Perspectives and Human Rights in Asia , I learned to identify underlying factors driving historical developments and evaluate the broader social implications of foreign policies within the context of the global order. I find my research and analytical skills to be crucial in my design decisions as these skills provide insight into how my target audience will perceive and interact with my design. Researching the context and background of my target audience is an important step in my design process and has allowed me to approach every design problem with more intention and value. By integrating my learning from my graphic design and international studies program, my studies have contributed to my understanding that design is more than just visual and aesthetics, but an interdisciplinary medium that cultivates effective communication.
My job as a student ambassador at the UF Center of Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement (CIME), specifically the Office of Asian Pacific Islander Desi Student Engagement (APIDSE) played a significant role in my creative expression and professional development. Through coordinating the office’s workshops such as Chai Chats, I helped create a safe space for students to share their struggles and learn about each other’s cultures. I also had the privilege of planning the office’s first annual Cultural Fair and reviving the Asian Excellence Graduation Ceremony and Hall of Fame post-COVID. In addition to event planning, I have helped create the branding and marketing materials such as flyers, slideshows and punch cards for the past 3 years.
My study abroad experience in Seoul and engagement with campus initiatives also played a critical role in fostering my global learning, leadership, teamwork and project management. Participating in the Korea University International Summer Campus and navigating my first solo international travel provided me with meaningful opportunities to be culturally immersed and engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds. My leadership involvement in various student initiatives such as Ligature 34 and Asian Kaleidoscope Month enriched me with experiences leading and working with my peers. Through collaborating in different projects, these opportunities nurtured my teamwork ability, communication and project management skills and enhanced my soft skills essential to my growth as a multifaceted designer. Moreover, engagement in diverse campus involvements have deeply influenced my commitment to fostering inclusive and respectful interactions in everyday life. Approaching others with empathy and cultural awareness has enabled me to build stronger relationships and broaden my understanding of different cultures and communities.
Directly engaging with the diverse community on campus and globally while utilizing my design thinking and knowledge about the political and socioeconomic context has defined my personal and professional goals as a multidisciplinary designer. Because of my global experiences, determination, passion and adaptability, I strive to become a designer that advocates for minority communities and inspires others to do the same.
Skills
Leadership
In my leadership roles as AKM Multimedia Director and Ligature Co-chair, I have guided committees with a balance of decisiveness, clear direction, and adaptability, while ensuring that our team efficiently meets deadlines and completes tasks effectively. Effective leadership requires not only the ability to facilitate a team and resolve conflicts but also to foster a collaborative and supportive environment. By setting clear expectations and leading by example, I strive to cultivate strong team dynamics and encourage growth among team members.
Ability to work in a Team
From collaborating on group class projects to organizing numerous campus events with peers, I have developed strong teamwork skills and confidence in my ability to work effectively with others. Through these experiences, I have learned that clear communication and active listening are essential to successful collaboration. Additionally, fostering mutual respect, trust, and support within a team creates an environment where members can grow together and celebrate each other’s achievements.
Cultural Awareness
My study abroad experience in Seoul and ambassadorship at UF Center of Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement had contributed to my global learning experience. As I engage people often from different backgrounds, it has influenced me to foster a diverse and inclusive interaction with people in my everyday life. Approaching people with empathy and having cultural awareness has helped me form better relationships with people and expand my knowledge on different cultures and communities.
Project Management & Organization
Through my involvement in student organizations, jobs, and academic coursework, I have developed strong time management and organizational skills using tools like to-do lists and Google Calendar. My experience in event programming and multimedia production has reinforced the importance of effective project management, enabling me to balance personal and professional commitments while maximizing efficiency.
