“Surviving and Thriving in Design School: Tips from a a Fellow Student”

Introduction

Design school is an intense, exciting experience across fields, whether you’re in Fashion, Interior, Product, UX, or Communication Design. I’ve learned that while each specialization has unique challenges, some strategies make it easier to thrive no matter what you’re studying. Here are my go-to tips for getting through the ups and downs.

Top Tips for Thriving in Design School

Get Comfortable with Critique: In every design domain, feedback is essential. I learned not to take critiques personally and see them as learning opportunities. Especially in fields like UX or Interior Design, where usability and client satisfaction matter, feedback is key to making our designs more effective. Find a “Design Buddy” or Join a Study Group: Having peers from different fields, like textile students discussing patterns with product designers or UX students sharing insights with communication majors, has expanded my perspective and made assignments more fun. Design is collaborative, and a group setting adds to our creativity. Experiment Beyond Your Comfort Zone: Each field has specialties, but venturing into others can be eye-opening. I’m in Fashion Design, but learning about product design materials and finishes gave me ideas for unique garment textures. Similarly, UX designers who explore print or digital storytelling add depth to their user flows. Stay Inspired by Taking Breaks and Observing the World Around You: Design inspiration is everywhere, from gallery visits to walks in the city. For instance, seeing architectural details can inspire both product and textile patterns. For Communication and UX students, studying real-world designs and how people interact with them keeps ideas fresh.

Balancing Work and Well-being:Design school can be overwhelming, but I make it a priority to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s a hobby, outdoor activity, or quiet time, these breaks help me return to work with renewed creativity and energy.