My name is Hao Yi Michelle Lu, and I am attending UC Davis, where I am pursuing a major in Design. This program allows me to combine my passion for creativity with technical skills, which I believe will serve me well as I advance in my career.I chose to major in Design because I have always been fascinated by how visual elements can influence people's emotions, perceptions, and behaviors. From a young age, I enjoyed creating art and experimenting with design tools. I believe design has the power to communicate complex ideas in simple and visually engaging ways, and I want to develop the skills to bring my ideas to life in a professional setting. My ultimate aspiration is to become a graphic designer. I want to work with brands and organizations to create compelling visuals that tell their stories and help them connect with their audiences. In the future, I hope to specialize in branding and digital design, focusing on creating innovative, user-centered designs for websites, apps, and marketing materials.
I am proficient in using software like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, as well as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, etc.). My skills in these programs allow me to communicate ideas effectively through digital and print media. Additionally, I have a strong foundation in design principles, including layout, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy. One of the projects I'm most proud of is designing promotional materials for the Mid-Autumn Festival. I created posters, digital graphics, and a branding package that conveyed the event's cultural significance in a visually compelling and modern way. It was an excellent opportunity to apply my design skills to a real-world project, and I received positive feedback from peers and faculty alike.
While I don’t have any repair experience yet, I would love to learn how to repair high-heeled shoes. As a designer, I’m interested in the idea of functional aesthetics and craftsmanship, and I think learning how to repair high heels would be a great way to explore that intersection of design and practicality.At this point in my academic journey, I have not won any formal awards or received special recognition. However, I am committed to working hard and pushing myself to achieve excellence in my design work, and I look forward to future opportunities where I can earn accolades for my creative contributions.
I am not currently part of any official clubs or organizations, but I am very involved in online and offline personal design communities. I regularly participate in design challenges and collaborate with other aspiring designers to share ideas and receive feedback. I have a cat named Sami, an adorable, playful companion. She’s a big part of my life, and having her around keeps me grounded and relaxed during stressful study sessions. I also can’t live without coffee—it’s my go-to beverage to stay energized and focused while working on design projects.
This project will provide me with a unique opportunity to learn hands-on repair skills, which I believe will enhance my attention to detail and problem-solving abilities—important qualities for a designer. Working on repairs could help me appreciate the process of design and craftsmanship from a new perspective, enriching my understanding of how objects are built and maintained.