New Designs Born from Dialogue and Collaboration
- ［SOEDA］／
- Graduated from Kojo High School ／
- Graduated from the Industrial Design Course, School of Design, Kyushu University／
- Entered the Strategic Design Course, Graduate School of Design, Kyushu University in 2024／
- ［MIYAZATO］／
- Okinawa Prefectural Kaiho High School／
- Graduated from the Media Design Course, School of Design, Kyushu University／
- Entered the Strategic Design Course, Graduate School of Design, Kyushu University in 2024／
Related department, course
- Strategic Design Course (Graduate)
- Industrial Design Course (Undergraduate)
- Media Design Course (Undergraduate)
The reason why I chose the Graduate School of Design
［SOEDA］
I studied design to solve people’s challenges. I was originally interested in ergonomics and aimed to enter Kyushu University. After discovering the field of inclusive design, I felt that I wanted to pursue it further, and so, I specialized in this area at the Graduate School of Design.
［MIYAZATO］
I have loved drawing since I was a child, which led me to enroll in the School of Design at Kyushu University, where art and technology fuse. After entering the program, I became interested in programming and digital production. I chose the Graduate School of Design to deepen my understanding of how to connect these skills to real-world applications.
My most memorable class
In the Studio Project “The Kyushu University Hospital × Design Project,” we collaborated with the Pediatric Surgery Department at Kyushu University Hospital to design solutions that ease the anxiety of hospitalized children. We visited the ward, observed surgeries, and talked with patients’ families and medical professionals. Through these experiences, we realized the importance of addressing children’s feelings of “fear” and “uncertainty.” This led us to design “Hospitan,” a character based on medical instruments, and create related cards and games. This project received high praise from hospital staff, which was incredibly rewarding for us.
My student life
Alongside our respective master’s research, we continue to develop "Hospitan" after classes. We are currently refining it into a practical design through repeated discussions with Kyushu University Hospital staff, anticipating field testing. We also presented this work at design conferences and competitions outside our university, which has led to major achievements, including winning a competition's grand prize. Collaborating with people both inside and outside the university, and receiving their feedback, has greatly strengthened our motivation to keep creating.
Message to prospective students
［SOEDA］
I believe that when you actively engage with people, discoveries and opportunities naturally emerge. Our faculty brings together peers from diverse fields and areas of expertise, all through the lens of design. Take advantage of the many encounters and opportunities here and find the design you love!
［MIYAZATO］
I believe Geiko is a place that actively supports students who think, “I want to create something!” Creative club activities and interactions with students from other courses are stimulating and exciting! To all prospective students, do your best!