FIT Capstone – Building Bridges and Shaping the Next Generation
Shaping the next generation requires our time, resources, and commitment. We, as design professionals, can offer real-world experience and mentoring.
I am thrilled to share my experience working with the FIT Graduate Exhibition & Experience Design program. For over a decade, I have remained closely connected to the program and my admiration for its exceptional faculty has only grown stronger. In particular, Brenda Cowan and Christina Lyons stand out for their unwavering dedication, contagious enthusiasm and specialized expertise. The students in this program are truly fortunate to learn from such remarkable professors.
The FIT Graduate Exhibition & Experience Design program places a unique emphasis on interdisciplinary design, setting it apart from many others. This blending of disciplines is central to how we work, and it is essential that students are introduced to this way of thinking early and in a comprehensive manner. FIT’s coursework, alongside the internship opportunities, offers a strong foundation for understanding the field of Experiential Design.
FIT Capstone
The Fit Capstone is the highlight of the program—the “jewel in the crown.” This annual event serves as a thesis adjudication, where industry professionals from around the globe engage in one-on-one discussions with graduate students during their thesis defense. The students present their thesis work as a designed exhibition project, showcasing their exploration of a unique and original argument. The focus is on whether the student has crafted a compelling narrative that is consistently maintained throughout the design process. A key aspect of evaluation is how well the student understands their client, venue, audience, and, most importantly, the visitor experience.
I have been fortunate to work with students and professional organizations around the world over the course of my career; from the CTA’s international mentorship program, 30 Under 30, to USC/Dornsife’s EXL Learning Labs, to name a few. Each offers an exciting opportunity to connect students with our dynamic and changing industry. I find myself eagerly anticipating the FIT Capstone each year as it continually exposes me to fresh perspectives and emerging talent within the field. G&A has been fortunate to hire many students from this program and we are grateful for the opportunity to connect with such talented individuals.
In my role as a mentor, I have the privilege of guiding several students leading up to the culmination of their projects at Capstone. It is always a rewarding experience to witness the evolution of these projects, from their initial stages to the final presentations. I am consistently impressed by the creative and innovative solutions that are presented at Capstone. I would encourage all of you to attend the event and experience the incredible work of the FIT students.
Building Bridges & Shaping the Next Generation
Since graduating from college, I have been involved in teaching and mentorship in various forms. A key motivation for this is my desire to offer students a broader perspective on this multifaceted field while they are still in a learning environment—something I didn’t fully experience—and to provide them with a deeper understanding of our work.
Shaping the next generation requires our time, resources, and commitment. We, as design professionals, can offer real-world experience and mentoring. In addition, remember that even small actions—like offering feedback, sharing advice, sponsoring an award, or simply showing up—can make a difference. SEGD has always been focused on education and the organization continues to provide platforms for these meaningful connections, helping bridge education and the profession to strengthen the design community.
I truly believe in the value of these connections, and I consider myself lucky to be part of this vibrant, supportive community.
SEGD has always been focused on education and the organization continues to provide platforms for these meaningful connections, helping bridge education and the profession to strengthen the design community.
About SEGD
We are designers of experiences connecting people to place. SEGD is a multidisciplinary community collectively shaping the future of experience design. We are a thought leader and an amplifier in the practice of experience design. Learn more at segd.org.