Working with Carnegie Mellon’s design team was a valuable experience because it pushed me to design in a more collaborative and people-centered way. Unlike classroom projects, where most of the process happens within design-focused circles, this role involved working directly with people outside of the design major. I learned that successful design wasn’t just about producing something visually strong, but also about listening, understanding, and balancing different voices. Often, that meant translating non-designers’ ideas into visual language, finding common ground between differing opinions, and making sure the final product felt inclusive and representative. This experience reminded me that design is ultimately about communication and connection, and it deepened my appreciation for how much stronger a project can become when multiple perspectives are brought together.