Sowers, Alyssa

When coming up with new ideas for design, it is hard to get my imagination flowing on my own. Often, I need to take time to brainstorm or be inspired by different designs to get ideas flowing through my head. Typically, I will come up with a general idea, reuse and reproduce that idea into many reiterations, providing different concepts that can be used. Because of the consistency from the original idea, many different ideas can be used. Then I pick the best idea that is a good representation of the original idea that I had imagined. This process will help create a sense of stability that can be vital to use during the design process and when producing final ideas. I will be knowledgeable in the direction I am wanting to go in and can continue on with a more solid idea. Most of the time, I find delight in seeing a design process and its progression over time to see the development from start to finish. When finding a balance between process and brainstorming, and the final project/ideas, I can create the best option that will benefit the design to its maximum.

Do you have any plans after this semester?

I plan on taking a much needed break and spending time with family and friends, as well as updating my portfolio, resume, and linkedin account to be prepared for future jobs.

What type of designer would you like to be?

I have always had a great interest in naval and aviation design as well as residential. However I have always wanted to be a flexible designer that can tackle any challenge.

Can you tell me about any problems you ran into in the studio or outside?

Finding time to take care of myself and my physical and mental health while balancing the work of studio was very challenging. I began to rush through studio work just so I could have time to sleep or eat.

What kind of place would you like to design next?

I would love to design a restaurant or an airport lounge next.

What do you think makes a good workplace?

I think a good workplace comes with community and comfort. Having instructors and bosses that are encouraging and uplifting.

Can you tell me what evidence-based design means to you?

Evidence based design is using history and fact to create a well generated design. It is efficient and connects to the clients.

Compared to previous semesters, the semester may be challenging in many ways, but you may be able to see your accomplishments. Reviewing your accomplishments, what did you learn from this studio?

From this studio, I learned that I need to take more time focusing on what I believe will be a good design and focus less on other people’s opinions. This way I will be able to carefully create a design with a clear concept and be able to demonstrate my own ideas and creativity.

Would you like to share anything with future students of this studio?

Take more time for yourself and trust your creativity.