Maryland Institute College of Art
During my time at MICA, I earned my Master’s in User Experience Design with a focus on social media, artificial intelligence, and accessible design systems. I was honored to be selected by the institution as the 2025 Graduate Student Commencement Speaker. This speech is a reflection of my journey as a creative risk-taker and the power of defining your personal why when the future is unknown—a theme that shaped both my experience at MICA and the work I continue to pursue.
Featured on MICA Admissions webpage
Introduced by Provost STACEY SALAZAR
projects
Topia
A social media concept designed to combat misinformation using AI-powered credibility analysis. From onboarding to smart saving, Topia blends education and entertainment while promoting media literacy and balanced perspectives. Created as my Capstone project at MICA.
Skills:
Brand Identity: Visual Design, Brand strategy, Copywriting, and Conceptual Thinking
UX Design Cycle: Research, Competitive Metrix, Interviews, Design Review, Persona Building, Journey Mapping, Task Analysis, Design Diversifying, User Stories, Prototyping, Qualitative Testing, User Group Outreach, Accessibility Evaluation, Feedback Review
Programs: Adobe Creative Cloud [Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere Pro], Figma, Figjam, Dovetail, Procreate, Google Workspace, Canva, Procreate
SportStar
A branding and safety platform for student-athletes navigating Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. SportStar helps athletes protect their identity, find verified deals, and build a personal brand. This app aims to address real-world gaps in the NIL landscape.
Skills:
Brand Identity: Visual Design, Brand strategy, and Copywriting
UX Design Cycle: Research, Competitive Metrix, Interviews, Design Review, Persona Building, Journey Mapping, Task Analysis, Design Diversifying, User Stories, Prototyping, Qualitative Testing, User Group Outreach, Accessibility Evaluation, Feedback Review
Programs: Adobe Creative Cloud [Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere Pro], Figma, Figjam, Dovetail, Procreate, Google Workspace, Procreate
The Intersection of Memory and User Interface
This research examines how memory and the reward system are activated during social media use—making platforms like TikTok especially addictive. This piece explores the neuroscience behind interface design, how attention is captured and held, and raises ethical questions around designing for memory manipulation.
Virginia Commonwealth university
At VCU, I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, where I developed both creative and analytical skills to communicate ideas visually. Through the Graphic Design program, I gained experience across professional areas such as print design, sequential design (storytelling), and interactive/digital design, while building practical skills and a professional portfolio.
As a member of the Division I Track & Field team, I practiced leadership, discipline, and patience, allowing me to contribute to a two-time A10 championship team. Combining my love for art and athletics, I collaborated with VCU Athletics to design NCAA merchandise, including the official t-shirt for the 2018–2019 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament and the 2019 VCU Athletics membership t-shirts.