What was a highlight for you of living and studying in New York City?

I think the constant source of inspiration. I had access to so many people and sources that really made my thesis work so much richer. I was able to work with other masters students and mentors and learn from a lot of different perspectives.

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What is something you learned at SVA that you'll always take with you?

Never stop asking why, and be specific about who you are designing for.

Was there a teacher or course that was essential for you?

The course that had its biggest impact on me was our thesis writing class during the second semester of our second year. I think it was the class that pushed me the most in terms of crafting the story of my design work.

What was your favorite piece of advice that a teacher or student shared with you?

No prototype. No meeting!

What advice do you have for next year's students going through your program?

Use the current situation and climate to find an opportunity to improve and innovate something. These are challenging times, and I believe the best environment for innovation. Don't be afraid to try something new or reinvent, if something you see is not working.

For last year's SVA Alumni Scholarship Awards, a record 74 students were chosen from a pool of over 212 applicants. They were granted scholarships worth more than $60,000 for projects as varied as design products, animation, painting and photography. For more information about the Alumni Scholarship Awards and to see a complete list of last year's recipients, click here. To Support the Talent this year, you can make a donation online at sva.edu/give.