CJ James Explores Experiential Design in Washington DC
Last week, SEGD bid farewell to our 2024 Summer Intern, CJ James. Hear from CJ as he reflects on his recent trip to visit our national office in Washington DC, and join us in wishing him all the best on his next endeavors!
I was thrilled to join SEGD as their 2024 Summer Intern as part of the University of Cincinnati’s CO-OP program. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and travel to my new CO-OP position in person, so when I was given the opportunity to visit SEGD’s headquarters in Washington DC, I was beyond excited for what the trip held for me. I learned about experiential design for the first time through my internship, so I was intrigued by what DC had in store for me in that regard. As a walkable city, DC offered no shortage of experiential design to help me and my family navigate the busy streets to get to our destinations.
Since I was in DC for the first time, I knew I had to check out all of the city’s rich history. It was amazing to see so many wayfinding techniques, exhibits, and building designs all around us. When we arrived at the United States Capitol Building, I noticed that there are several surrounding marble buildings with large arches and pillars that look similar to the Colosseum in Rome. Each Metro station has several unique and easy-to-read wayfinding posters that are strategically placed so that you are not likely to get lost. I also noticed the sheer amount of family-friendly and well-spaced exhibits in the museums along the National Mall.
Another great experience I had was using augmented reality on my iPhone to navigate around DC. Because it is always so busy in DC, it is easy to feel rushed to get where you need to go. It was an amazing experience to use so many physical and digital options to help me get around such a huge city and take in all of its history.
I am truly thankful for the opportunity that SEGD and its wonderful team have given me. It was such a great experience that I will always remember. I was truly happy to travel to someplace new, and I hope to continue to do that as I continue my design journey!
Feel free to connect with CJ on LinkedIn to keep in touch!
About the DAAP Co-Op
The co-op program at DAAP provides valuable on-the-job experience that helps students learn and mature in a professional environment. SEGD is proud to partner with DAAP to encourage and uplift the next generation of designers.