Interviews are available in English only. Open the English page.
Interviews with Qian Wan
Designer profileDesigner of the Day Interview
13 May 2023
With over a decade of extensive experience in the design industry, I proudly stand as a seasoned and accomplished professional. Throughout my illustrious career, I have had the privilege of collaborating with renowned organizations spanning diverse sectors. Notable collaborations include esteemed entities such as VMware, Penn Medicine, and GEICO, where I assumed the role of a design lead at a progressive healthcare startup.
I have been blessed with exceptional opportunities to contribute to exceptional projects as a key member or as the lead designer. One remarkable achievement worth highlighting is my involvement in the creation of the acclaimed GEICO Mobile App. This groundbreaking endeavor garnered resounding accolades, with the distinguished People's Voice Award at the highly esteemed Webby Awards and the coveted title of the top-ranking application by the Keynova Group.
Beyond the realm of professional endeavors, I am fueled by an insatiable passion for investing my time and expertise in personal projects. These ventures have garnered widespread recognition, with prestigious accolades including the revered Gold Award at the Muse Creative Awards, multiple Gold Awards at the Indigo Design Awards, the esteemed Arcturus from the Vega Digital Awards, and the esteemed Iron Award at the A’ Design Award.
In addition to my design contributions, I have had the honor of serving as a distinguished judge at the internationally acclaimed TreeHacks hackathon hosted by Stanford University. This esteemed role bestowed upon me the responsibility of meticulously evaluating over 300 project submissions from a remarkable pool of 1,600 hackers representing 12 countries.
These remarkable milestones and experiences have shaped my journey, fueling my dedication to craft designs that resonate, inspire, and push the boundaries of creativity.
I have been blessed with exceptional opportunities to contribute to exceptional projects as a key member or as the lead designer. One remarkable achievement worth highlighting is my involvement in the creation of the acclaimed GEICO Mobile App. This groundbreaking endeavor garnered resounding accolades, with the distinguished People's Voice Award at the highly esteemed Webby Awards and the coveted title of the top-ranking application by the Keynova Group.
Beyond the realm of professional endeavors, I am fueled by an insatiable passion for investing my time and expertise in personal projects. These ventures have garnered widespread recognition, with prestigious accolades including the revered Gold Award at the Muse Creative Awards, multiple Gold Awards at the Indigo Design Awards, the esteemed Arcturus from the Vega Digital Awards, and the esteemed Iron Award at the A’ Design Award.
In addition to my design contributions, I have had the honor of serving as a distinguished judge at the internationally acclaimed TreeHacks hackathon hosted by Stanford University. This esteemed role bestowed upon me the responsibility of meticulously evaluating over 300 project submissions from a remarkable pool of 1,600 hackers representing 12 countries.
These remarkable milestones and experiences have shaped my journey, fueling my dedication to craft designs that resonate, inspire, and push the boundaries of creativity.
Since an early age, I have nurtured a deep and unwavering passion for design and art. The sheer delight of sketching, painting, and engaging in hands-on creative endeavors has ignited my artistic spirit. As my academic journey unfolded, I found myself drawn to the captivating realm of industrial design, which sparked a profound fascination for the intersection of digital innovation and technological progress. It was within this exploration that I serendipitously stumbled upon the captivating discipline of UX/product design, where my innate creativity harmoniously converges with a heartfelt aspiration to craft products that contribute to the betterment of society.
Determined to refine my expertise and expand my skill set, I eagerly embarked on a series of consequential projects, each serving as a stepping stone towards my current role as a proficient UX/product designer. Through these formative experiences, I have honed my abilities and deepened my understanding of how design can be leveraged as a powerful agent of positive change within our society.
Now, fully immersed in my vocation, I proudly navigate the realm of UX/product design with proficiency and purpose. It is through this chosen path that I wield the transformative power of design to create meaningful and impactful experiences for users, striving to foster social welfare and make a tangible difference in the world.
Determined to refine my expertise and expand my skill set, I eagerly embarked on a series of consequential projects, each serving as a stepping stone towards my current role as a proficient UX/product designer. Through these formative experiences, I have honed my abilities and deepened my understanding of how design can be leveraged as a powerful agent of positive change within our society.
Now, fully immersed in my vocation, I proudly navigate the realm of UX/product design with proficiency and purpose. It is through this chosen path that I wield the transformative power of design to create meaningful and impactful experiences for users, striving to foster social welfare and make a tangible difference in the world.
In the realm of interaction and motion design, I embrace a playful approach that infuses my work with a sense of delight and whimsy. My ultimate goal is to not only create visually captivating experiences but also to evoke feelings of joy, spark innovation, and contribute to the betterment of society.
Engulfed in a design project, a wave of excitement washes over me, invigorating my creative spirit. The prospect of transforming ideas into tangible and impactful designs fills me with an electrifying enthusiasm. Yet, I cannot deny that an element of challenge accompanies this exhilaration, for within every design project lies a multitude of unknowns waiting to be unraveled.
Embracing this challenge, I navigate through uncharted territories, fully aware that the path to innovation is often paved with uncertainty. It is within these unexplored realms that I discover hidden opportunities, allowing me to push the boundaries of my own capabilities. Every twist and turn presents a chance to explore new techniques, experiment with fresh ideas, and uncover novel solutions.
Embracing this challenge, I navigate through uncharted territories, fully aware that the path to innovation is often paved with uncertainty. It is within these unexplored realms that I discover hidden opportunities, allowing me to push the boundaries of my own capabilities. Every twist and turn presents a chance to explore new techniques, experiment with fresh ideas, and uncover novel solutions.
My educational background at the intersection of design and engineering, coupled with my Integrated Product Design program at Upenn, has provided me with a holistic perspective on projects. In addition to design knowledge, I have gained valuable insights in areas such as big data, machine learning, and business through Wharton courses. This multidisciplinary knowledge allows me to seamlessly move from high-level strategic thinking to detailed implementation and collaborate effectively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
Looking ahead, my future plans revolve around a steadfast commitment to expanding both my global and community impact. Building upon the foundation of my past achievements, I aim to push the boundaries even further and make a meaningful difference on a larger scale.
On a global level, I aspire to extend my reach and influence to wider audiences. This entails leveraging my design expertise to address pressing global challenges and contribute to solutions that transcend borders. Whether it be through innovative design projects, collaborations with international organizations, or participation in global initiatives, I seek to create positive change that resonates on a global scale.
On a global level, I aspire to extend my reach and influence to wider audiences. This entails leveraging my design expertise to address pressing global challenges and contribute to solutions that transcend borders. Whether it be through innovative design projects, collaborations with international organizations, or participation in global initiatives, I seek to create positive change that resonates on a global scale.
My advice to aspiring designers who are embarking on their career journey is to embrace two crucial pillars: seeking feedback and fostering collaboration. It is essential to shed any fear or hesitation and actively share your work with others, inviting constructive criticism and insights. By engaging with fellow designers, mentors, or design communities, you expose yourself to diverse perspectives and invaluable guidance that can elevate your skills and understanding.
Do not hesitate to showcase your impact, knowledge, and projects to your peers. It is essential to go beyond the boundaries of your immediate job and cultivate connections outside of your professional sphere. By doing so, you can unlock a multitude of benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
First and foremost, sharing your impact, whether it be through presentations, conferences, or online platforms, allows you to demonstrate your expertise and showcase the value of your work.
In addition, actively engaging with peers beyond your workplace fosters a culture of knowledge exchange and continuous learning. By connecting with designers from diverse backgrounds and industries, you gain access to fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and valuable insights.
First and foremost, sharing your impact, whether it be through presentations, conferences, or online platforms, allows you to demonstrate your expertise and showcase the value of your work.
In addition, actively engaging with peers beyond your workplace fosters a culture of knowledge exchange and continuous learning. By connecting with designers from diverse backgrounds and industries, you gain access to fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and valuable insights.
In my daily life as a designer, my primary focus revolves around the design projects assigned to me by either the product manager or my direct manager. To ensure a solid foundation, I dedicate time to settling project details and conducting thorough research before immersing myself in the design work. This preliminary phase allows me to gain a deep understanding of the project requirements, target audience, and contextual nuances, ensuring that my designs are purposeful and aligned with the intended goals.
Beyond the project-specific tasks, I also recognize the importance of continuous learning and professional development. To stay abreast of the ever-evolving landscape of technology and design, I proactively invest time in reading industry publications and staying updated on the latest trends. Additionally, I actively seek out and enroll in courses and workshops that expand my knowledge base and refine my skills. This commitment to ongoing education empowers me to bring fresh insights and innovative approaches to my design projects.
By striking a balance between project-focused work and continuous learning, I strive to deliver impactful designs that not only meet the immediate project objectives but also reflect the latest advancements and best practices in the field. This proactive approach ensures that I remain at the forefront of the design industry and consistently deliver exceptional results.
By striking a balance between project-focused work and continuous learning, I strive to deliver impactful designs that not only meet the immediate project objectives but also reflect the latest advancements and best practices in the field. This proactive approach ensures that I remain at the forefront of the design industry and consistently deliver exceptional results.
Good design is characterized by its ability to generate both business impact and social impact. It combines strategic thinking, innovation, and a deep understanding of user needs to create solutions that not only meet business objectives but also contribute to a better and more inclusive society. By considering both dimensions, designers have the opportunity to create designs that are not only visually appealing and functional but also meaningful, purposeful, and impactful in the broader context.
Design Interview
27 May 2023 · Ling App Chatbot
The inspiration behind the creation of Ling came from the urgent need to address the rising racism and violence against Asians, particularly Chinese international students, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These students, who come from a distinct culture and are studying abroad, often face discrimination and harassment but may be less sensitive to it due to their unfamiliarity with the local culture.
The goal was to create a mobile-based educational chatbot that could provide real-time support, learning resources, and guidance on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) to help these students identify and prevent discrimination and harassment. Ling aims to bridge the gap in knowledge and provide a humanized approach to addressing these challenging experiences.
I intend to actively promote Ling to raise awareness among educational institutions, student communities, and relevant stakeholders about the importance of addressing racial discrimination and providing support.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have become increasingly aware of the challenges and issues faced by Asians, particularly in relation to the rise in racism and discrimination. This heightened awareness has prompted me to engage in conversations and actively seek to understand the experiences of Asians who have encountered similar difficulties.
By designing this work, the goal was to bridge that gap and provide a solution that could empower students to recognize discrimination, express their experiences, and access trusted resources and support. It was driven by the desire to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for these students, enabling them to navigate their studies abroad with greater confidence and well-being.
What sets the design of Ling apart from other similar or resembling concepts is its focus on the specific needs of Asian international students facing racial discrimination. While there are other platforms and resources that address equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), Ling takes a unique approach by combining real-time inquiry functionality, personalized learning resources, and connection to trusted case report sources within the students' own schools.
I utilized a variety of design tools to aid in the development and execution of the design. Some of the key design tools that were employed included user research where I used tools such as interview guides, note-taking apps, and audio/video recording devices. These tools helped capture and document the experiences and perspectives of the users accurately. As for design, I used Figma and After Effects for prototyping.
Yes, the design of Ling is influenced by data and analytical research. Extensive research was conducted to gain insights into the experiences, needs, and challenges. I conducted interviews with 11 Asian who were currently studying or working in the USA and had experienced racial discrimination. These interviews provided valuable firsthand insights into their experiences, emotions, and reactions to discrimination. The interviews focused on understanding their journey, mood, and reactions, helping identify design opportunities and areas of improvement.
Participating in an international design competition provides a platform to share the design concept and story behind Ling with a global audience. It offers the opportunity to raise people’s awareness in post-COVID era, and it inspires more people contribute to and address the issue.
During the design process of Ling, I learned and improved myself. Working on a project focused on the experiences of Asians highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity in design. It deepened my awareness of cultural nuances, communication styles, and diverse perspectives. This experience broadened my horizons and improved my ability to design inclusively for users from different cultural backgrounds.
Design Legend Interview
20 May 2023
After completing my Master's degree in Integrated Product Design from Upenn, I embarked on a rewarding professional journey, working with esteemed global companies such as Penn Medicine, GEICO, and VMware. Each opportunity allowed me to make significant contributions and achieve remarkable milestones in various focused areas.
At GEICO, I played a pivotal role in the success and widespread adoption of the GEICO Mobile App. This exceptional endeavor garnered substantial recognition, including the Keynova Group bestowed upon it the distinguished title of the top-ranking application. My contributions significantly impacted GEICO's overall success, bolstering its market reputation and expanding its reach, primarily attributed to the immense triumph of the GEICO Mobile App product.
During my time at VMware, I played an important role in the design of the multicloud management platform. This encompassed spearheading initiatives related to vRealize Suites, Aria Hub, Business insights, and other essential components. Through my efforts, I played a vital role in the evolution and advancement of VMware's offerings in this domain.
These valuable experiences have not only allowed me to demonstrate my expertise and make significant contributions but have also provided me with a profound understanding of the complex and dynamic landscape of the industry. I continue to seek new opportunities to apply my skills, drive innovation, and contribute to the success of impactful projects that shape the future of design and technology.
At GEICO, I played a pivotal role in the success and widespread adoption of the GEICO Mobile App. This exceptional endeavor garnered substantial recognition, including the Keynova Group bestowed upon it the distinguished title of the top-ranking application. My contributions significantly impacted GEICO's overall success, bolstering its market reputation and expanding its reach, primarily attributed to the immense triumph of the GEICO Mobile App product.
During my time at VMware, I played an important role in the design of the multicloud management platform. This encompassed spearheading initiatives related to vRealize Suites, Aria Hub, Business insights, and other essential components. Through my efforts, I played a vital role in the evolution and advancement of VMware's offerings in this domain.
These valuable experiences have not only allowed me to demonstrate my expertise and make significant contributions but have also provided me with a profound understanding of the complex and dynamic landscape of the industry. I continue to seek new opportunities to apply my skills, drive innovation, and contribute to the success of impactful projects that shape the future of design and technology.
Ever since I was a child, I have nurtured a deep passion for design and art. This fervor led me to pursue a university education in industrial design, with a specific focus on furniture. However, as technology advanced rapidly, I found myself increasingly captivated by the digital world and its boundless possibilities. This growing obsession inspired me to channel my creative energy towards designing and creating solutions that serve the greater good of society. I yearned to harness the power of design and technology to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of our world. This newfound aspiration has become a driving force in my journey, propelling me to explore innovative ways to leverage design for the betterment of society and create meaningful experiences that resonate with people's lives.
When it comes to the types of designs I aspire to work on, my passion lies in designing for accessibility and inclusion. I firmly believe that design and experiences should be equitable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. By focusing on accessibility, I aim to create designs that empower individuals and ensure that everyone can engage with products, services, and experiences in a meaningful way.
Furthermore, I am deeply committed to leveraging design as a vehicle for social impact. Design has the power to influence perceptions, break down barriers, and foster positive change. Through my work, I aspire to address societal challenges, promote inclusivity, and create solutions that have a lasting and meaningful impact on people's lives.
Furthermore, I am deeply committed to leveraging design as a vehicle for social impact. Design has the power to influence perceptions, break down barriers, and foster positive change. Through my work, I aspire to address societal challenges, promote inclusivity, and create solutions that have a lasting and meaningful impact on people's lives.
There are numerous aspects to consider when evaluating what makes a design truly exceptional. One element that I personally hold in high regard is empathy. It is crucial to deeply understand the purpose and intended audience of a project. A design that reflects a genuine empathy for the users it is designed for demonstrates the true passion and commitment of the designer.
Additionally, attention to detail plays a significant role in defining the quality of a design. The meticulous consideration of every aspect, from the overall composition to the smallest elements, can elevate a design to a higher level of excellence. Thoughtful execution and a keen eye for detail contribute to the overall cohesiveness and polish of the final product.
Additionally, attention to detail plays a significant role in defining the quality of a design. The meticulous consideration of every aspect, from the overall composition to the smallest elements, can elevate a design to a higher level of excellence. Thoughtful execution and a keen eye for detail contribute to the overall cohesiveness and polish of the final product.
14. What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?
One of my most esteemed design achievements is my renowned project, "Ling." This exceptional endeavor is a mobile-based chatbot meticulously crafted to provide inclusive support. The remarkable success of "Ling" is evidenced by its extensive collection of international design accolades, which include:
Gold Winner in the Muse Creative Awards in the App - Diversity and Inclusion category.
Gold-Design for Social Change-Apps
Gold-Design for Social Change-Interaction Design
Gold-Graphic Design-Interaction Design
Gold-Mobile Design-Mobile Interaction & Experience
Silver-Design for Social Change-Digital design
Arcturus Winner in the Vega Digital Awards
Iron Winner in A'Design Awards
"Ling" not only represents a remarkable achievement in terms of design excellence but also symbolizes my unwavering dedication to designing for inclusion and making a positive impact through my work.
One of my most esteemed design achievements is my renowned project, "Ling." This exceptional endeavor is a mobile-based chatbot meticulously crafted to provide inclusive support. The remarkable success of "Ling" is evidenced by its extensive collection of international design accolades, which include:
Gold Winner in the Muse Creative Awards in the App - Diversity and Inclusion category.
Gold-Design for Social Change-Apps
Gold-Design for Social Change-Interaction Design
Gold-Graphic Design-Interaction Design
Gold-Mobile Design-Mobile Interaction & Experience
Silver-Design for Social Change-Digital design
Arcturus Winner in the Vega Digital Awards
Iron Winner in A'Design Awards
"Ling" not only represents a remarkable achievement in terms of design excellence but also symbolizes my unwavering dedication to designing for inclusion and making a positive impact through my work.
Continuing my work on the award-winning project "Ling" is of utmost importance to me as I am driven by the desire to create a platform that empowers individuals to overcome challenges and fosters inclusivity. Designing with the intention of bringing about social good has always been my lifelong goal as a designer.
When reflecting on the design projects that have brought me the most satisfaction, I find that it is those professional endeavors that have garnered significant impact which stand out. These are the projects that have resonated on a larger scale, leaving a lasting impression both within the organization and in the wider world.
One source of satisfaction comes from projects that have received public recognition, where the CEO has publicly acknowledged their significance during global conferences. The exposure gained through press coverage and social media channels amplifies the impact of the project, allowing it to reach a broader audience and make a lasting impression. The recognition received in the form of awards further validates the efforts put into the project and serves as a testament to its excellence.
Additionally, projects that have played a pivotal role in driving business growth for the organization bring immense satisfaction. These are the projects that have contributed to achieving key objectives, generating tangible results, and positioning the company for success. Seeing the positive impact on the bottom line and witnessing the growth and success that ensue from these projects is truly rewarding.
Ultimately, the projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those that have made a significant impact, whether through public acclaim, recognition, or contributing to the growth and success of the organization. It is the knowledge that my work has made a meaningful difference, both internally and externally, that brings a sense of fulfillment and motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of design.
One source of satisfaction comes from projects that have received public recognition, where the CEO has publicly acknowledged their significance during global conferences. The exposure gained through press coverage and social media channels amplifies the impact of the project, allowing it to reach a broader audience and make a lasting impression. The recognition received in the form of awards further validates the efforts put into the project and serves as a testament to its excellence.
Additionally, projects that have played a pivotal role in driving business growth for the organization bring immense satisfaction. These are the projects that have contributed to achieving key objectives, generating tangible results, and positioning the company for success. Seeing the positive impact on the bottom line and witnessing the growth and success that ensue from these projects is truly rewarding.
Ultimately, the projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those that have made a significant impact, whether through public acclaim, recognition, or contributing to the growth and success of the organization. It is the knowledge that my work has made a meaningful difference, both internally and externally, that brings a sense of fulfillment and motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of design.
In addition to utilizing professional digital tools like Figma and Adobe for high-level production, I find great enjoyment and value in utilizing more traditional methods such as a whiteboard and pen to flesh out my ideas. There is a certain simplicity and freedom that comes with these analog tools that allows me to fully explore and express my creativity.
I find great joy in collaborating with others when it comes to design. I believe that there is no singular "ideal design partner" as each collaboration brings a unique and valuable perspective to the table. I approach collaborations with a flexible and open mindset, always eager to learn from others and contribute my own expertise.
While receiving numerous awards is undoubtedly an incredible achievement, I find myself equally excited about the new journey ahead. Winning these accolades does not mark the end of my journey; rather, it serves as a reminder of the responsibility I bear to continue making meaningful contributions to the realms of inclusion and accessibility.
These awards affirm the impact and value of my work thus far, but they also serve as a catalyst for further growth and exploration. I believe that true success lies not in resting on past accomplishments but in embracing the continuous pursuit of improvement and innovation. It is my passion and commitment to creating inclusive and accessible design solutions that propel me forward.
These awards affirm the impact and value of my work thus far, but they also serve as a catalyst for further growth and exploration. I believe that true success lies not in resting on past accomplishments but in embracing the continuous pursuit of improvement and innovation. It is my passion and commitment to creating inclusive and accessible design solutions that propel me forward.
Designer Interview
7 May 2023
I fostered a deep-seated ardor for design and art. As I embarked on my academic journey, I delved into the realm of industrial design, which steadily kindled my fascination for the digital sphere and technological advancements. It was through this exploration that I stumbled upon the captivating realm of UX/product design (Product Designer)—a discipline that harmoniously amalgamates my innate creativity with an earnest aspiration to forge products that engender social welfare. Nurturing my expertise and honing my skills, I embarked on various consequential projects, ultimately culminating in my current vocation as a proficient UX/product designer, wherein I harness the power of design to effect positive change within society.
Design, to me, is the art and practice of crafting purposeful and meaningful solutions. It encompasses the thoughtful integration of aesthetics, functionality, and user experience to create products, services, and experiences that enhance people's lives. Design goes beyond visual appeal; it involves problem-solving, empathy, and innovation. It is about understanding the needs and aspirations of users, anticipating their challenges, and creating solutions that address those needs with elegance and efficiency. Design is a powerful tool that has the ability to shape and improve our world, fostering positive experiences, and driving positive change.
I find great pleasure in engaging with design within the digital realm, particularly when it comes to crafting captivating experiences for mobile applications and desktop interfaces. Collaborating closely with clients is something I truly relish, as it allows me to shape user-centered designs that prioritize the needs and desires of the end-users. By placing the user at the heart of the design process, I am able to create intuitive and seamless experiences that resonate with their expectations and preferences. This iterative approach not only fosters strong connections with customers but also ensures the development of products that truly cater to their needs.
One of my most cherished design endeavors is my acclaimed project called "Ling," a mobile-based chatbot designed to provide inclusive support. "Ling" has garnered numerous international design accolades, including a prestigious gold award from the Muse Awards, recognition as an Arcturus Winner from the Vega Digital Awards, multiple gold awards from the Indigo Awards, and an esteemed Iron A’ Design Award. I hold a special affinity for this project as I was able to independently see it through from its conceptualization to its execution. Notably, the project revolves around the theme of inclusion and carries a profound social impact.
The inaugural design project I undertook within my company was none other than the renowned GEICO Mobile App. This exceptional endeavor garnered significant recognition, as it triumphed in securing the esteemed People's Voice Award at the highly regarded Webby Awards. In addition, the Keynova Group bestowed upon it the distinguished title of the top-ranking application. Witnessing the substantial influence my contributions had on GEICO's overall prosperity, market standing, and visibility fills me with immense satisfaction. Undoubtedly, the resounding triumph of the GEICO Mobile App product played a pivotal role in achieving these remarkable outcomes
AI. AI can assist in designing for accessibility by automating the process of identifying and addressing accessibility issues. It can help designers ensure that their designs are inclusive and accessible to a broader range of users, regardless of their abilities.
During the design process, I prioritize a holistic approach that considers multiple aspects of a design. However, there are 2 key areas I’d like to focus
Innovation and Creativity: Encouraging innovation and creativity is vital for generating unique and impactful designs. I explore novel solutions, experiment with new ideas, and seek opportunities to push boundaries and challenge conventions.
Social Impact and Sustainability: I believe in the power of design to make a positive difference in society. I consider the social impact of a design, striving to create solutions that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical practices.
Innovation and Creativity: Encouraging innovation and creativity is vital for generating unique and impactful designs. I explore novel solutions, experiment with new ideas, and seek opportunities to push boundaries and challenge conventions.
Social Impact and Sustainability: I believe in the power of design to make a positive difference in society. I consider the social impact of a design, striving to create solutions that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical practices.
I am thrilled to embark on a new project, where I eagerly embrace the opportunity to not only understand but also empathize with the end-users. I wholeheartedly strive to delve into their needs, emotions, and perspectives. This empathetic connection allows me to cultivate a genuine sense of compassion, propelling me to create designs that deeply resonate with and effectively serve the intended audience.
Sense of achievement
Impact. A truly successful design makes a positive impact. It solves a problem, fulfills a need, or brings about positive change in society. It may promote sustainability, inclusivity, or address pressing social issues.
I have had the honor of serving as a design judge in esteemed international competitions, including TreeHacks and TechTogether. Throughout my experience, one principle that I hold dear, and I consider crucial for both design and non-design projects, is the concept of impact. Whether it be in terms of business or social significance, I firmly believe that making a meaningful impact is paramount.
Ethical considerations: Designers should uphold ethical standards and consider the potential social and environmental consequences of their designs. They should promote transparency, fairness, and social equity, avoiding practices that harm individuals or exploit the environment.
Grand Interview
22 November 2024 · Ling App Chatbot
The inspiration for Ling really came from observing the unique challenges that many Asian international students, particularly Chinese students, face when studying abroad. During the pandemic, I saw a troubling rise in racially motivated aggression against Asian communities. In particular, international students—already adapting to new academic and social environments—were especially vulnerable. Many students I spoke with felt isolated, unsure of how to respond to incidents of discrimination or subtle biases, and sometimes were even unaware that what they were experiencing was a form of harassment.
I did it intentional. We’re dealing with sensitive and deeply personal topics, so the interaction needed to feel as human and empathetic as possible. A chatbot format lets users feel like they’re having a private, supportive conversation rather than completing a sterile questionnaire or navigating through a typical app.
I kept the information architecture very streamlined. Instead of overwhelming users with long lists of articles or resources, we embedded bite-sized educational content directly into the chat experience. When users bring up a question or concern, Ling responds in a way that’s both informative and conversational
Through these interviews, I uncovered a consistent pattern: students often weren’t sure if what they were experiencing counted as discrimination, or they felt uncertain about how to react. This ambiguity led many of them to dismiss or internalize their experiences, often at the expense of their well-being. These findings directly influenced Ling's core features.One of the main features that emerged was Ling’s ability to help users identify different types of discrimination in real-time. By talking to Ling about their experiences, students can describe situations and receive feedback on whether what they encountered could be classified as a form of discrimination. This feature was inspired by students who expressed a need for clarity and validation.Another significant feature is the direct connection to their school’s resources, like equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) departments. Many students I spoke with didn’t know how to seek help within their institutions or feared that their concerns wouldn’t be taken seriously. By integrating a direct link to trusted resources, Ling helps them take immediate action, whether it’s reporting an incident or accessing support services, without having to navigate complex administrative structures on their own.
Every university has a different system for handling discrimination reports, so we had to work closely with each institution to understand their protocols and technical limitations.
Each city has its own mix of cultures and challenges when it comes to discrimination, and being exposed to different perspectives helped us better understand the range of experiences international students might have.
The solution was to design a step-by-step approach that felt more like a guided conversation than an assessment. This approach allowed us to simplify complex concepts without compromising depth or empathy.First, we broke down the identification process into digestible, relatable prompts, guiding students through their experiences gradually. Ling uses simple, non-technical language to ask questions like, “Did you feel uncomfortable with something someone said or did?” instead of directly probing for discrimination indicators. This lets users reflect without feeling pressured to label their experience immediately.Next, we used conditional branching in the dialogue, where Ling’s responses change based on the user’s input. This made interactions feel personalized, so Ling could offer tailored support, such as a follow-up question to help users articulate what they’re feeling. This dynamic helps Ling feel genuinely engaged, offering empathy while leading users gently toward recognition of what they might be experiencing.
One example is when users describe an interaction where they felt uncomfortable but aren’t sure why. Ling might respond by asking, “Did someone make a comment about where you’re from or how you speak?” and then explain how assumptions or remarks based on stereotypes can be microaggressions. For instance, if a student describes being complimented for speaking “good English,” Ling explains that while it may seem positive, it can imply an expectation of inadequacy based on their ethnicity—a common type of microaggression. This helps users pinpoint the subtle nature of such comments and understand the underlying bias.
One feature I'm exploring is a peer support network, where students can anonymously share their experiences or advice with each other through Ling, moderated to ensure safety and privacy.
I regularly collect anonymous surveys and conduct follow-up interviews with volunteer users to gauge how helpful Ling has been in real-life situations.
