Enabling the future
Being in a profession that allows you to dream of the future is exciting and a privilege. We live in a world shaped by a variety of cultures, people and belief systems. That privilege should be extended to all those who represent our world.
Creative exploration is better when infused with diverse points of view.
With that belief, I commit my time to organizations who have a proven track record in support of diversity, equity and inclusion.
San Jose State University
With many things in life, finding a good fit is one key to success. Landing at San Jose State University in 2020 was just that. A pay forward opportunity and it’s my alma-mater to boot.
I’m proud to mention they have been named the #1 Transformative College in the US. If you’re interested in sitting in on a class to share your wisdom, send me a note here.
I currently teach a Senior Design studio and a series of Portfolio development courses.
SJSU Senior Show 2022
Project Invent
Project Invent supports Middle and High School students in the practice of invention and creative problem solving. It’s a great way to teach young students and their parents about product development and ID.
Important! Invent has clear inclusion and equity goals. It’s not a lip service statement. I’ve seen the teams in action.
I volunteer in sessions during their academic year as well as sit on their Advisory Board.
Project Invent Demo Day 2022 San Jose Tech Museum
Photo courtesy of Project Invent
The Google Design Mentorship
Covid hit and George Floyd was murdered.
These events catalyzed my love for design and some unfortunate life events growing up Asian in a white neighborhood. Internships were Covid canceled and the general lack of diversity in the field of design really hit home.
I created the Google Design Mentorship, to help students to gain access to the designers at Google, despite Covid or bias.
Different from internships, we learned how to do this 100% online.
Different from the typical review process, there were NO portfolio submissions, period. Think about that. This instantly levels the field.
Different from the normal recruitment process, we selected schools with high concentrations of BIPOC enrollment.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
Nelson Mandela
Educational highlights:
SJSU 2020 - Current
Project Invent 2020 - Current
California College of Arts - 2016-2019
Seeing student projects come to life.
Seeing students land jobs.
Providing support for Middle school through College design students.
Aligning with organizations that have clear Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion goals.
Creating the Google Design Mentorship plan.
Currently teaching and mentoring at San Jose State and Project Invent.
Photo credit: Radoslav Bali