SeoGyeong Kim, Olive, is a Brunel University London Design Strategy and Innovation MA student from Korea.
I met her after being invited to attend the Design Masters Industry Student Review on the 8th March 2017.
What was involved? "During the event you will be an active participant, hearing first hand from the students and seeing their research ideas. During the review, students will display their projects and early concepts using art boards and artefacts in an exhibition style-format...hearing first hand from students about their research proposals. There will be 48 students exhibiting their projects during the evening, we would like you to speak to as many students as possible. Our aim is to build student self-esteem through your constructive comments and bring professional/practical perspectives to their project direction...and will ultimately help to drive forward the innovative and entrepreneurial culture of our students."
Amanda Baker, Project Manager
I was lucky to spend a few minutes with around seven students at the event and offer a perspective on how developing a brand could influence their proposals. Olive and I had a long discussion about the definition of 'lifestyle' and I challenged her to see beyond fashion brands. Our discussions continued after the Review and I was one of four experts who were interviewed in-depth as part of her research.
This is her response to my final suggestions for developing her project: "Lifestyle-driven design can change the future of startups". Apologies to her, I have taken the liberty of tweaking her grammar.
"The moment I read your email I was so impressed, your deep analysis and sincere consideration towards my work was more detailed than I could have expected. It's easy to understand each clear point, step by step.
This feedback inspired me a lot and I've learned more things from your opinions and have gained meaningful direction. Your advice has allowed me to satisfy my desire to deliver a clear concept and I am now going to develop my work further based on your direction. You are the person who gave the most instructive lessons and fully aided me in my studies. Thank you so much and best wishes every moment."
SeoGyeong Kim
I can't claim that Olive was my 'project'. The results of her work will be assessed by more qualified people than myself, but her response to my comments made me feel pretty good and I couldn't ask for a better testimonial.
Thanks Olive.
Lauren Jones is another alumnus of the Brunel University, who studied the Masters Design Futures course. She now runs her own consultancy, Box Creative. I caught up with her recently at a workshop for one of her clients and she told me, “Your talk really did stick with me and inspired beyond the course.”
Thanks Lauren.
And thanks Brunel.