Final Reflections & What’s Next


Final Reflections & What’s Next

Looking Back on the Year

Looking back, I’ve developed a lot—especially on a personal level. My mindset feels a lot more professional, and I feel much more ready to take on serious design projects. Working with people from so many different cultures and backgrounds has made me more flexible and adaptable, which is important since I haven’t committed to a specific career path yet. Keeping my options open and being able to fit into different environments is something I’m proud of.
Academically, it’s not something that directly pushes my bachelor’s forward, but it definitely adds valuable experience. It’s helped me understand people better and how different minds work in design.

What I’m Most Proud Of

Without a doubt, the Design Factory is the highlight of this whole year. Being part of that community has helped me grow the most—both in terms of skills and confidence. It’s what I look back on and feel genuinely proud of.

How This Year Shaped Me

This year taught me how different countries approach design, even if I didn’t always see it directly. I started to notice subtle influences in everyday life—things like layout choices, mobility systems, and how people think about functionality. Getting to work alongside different viewpoints has opened my mind and changed how I look at problems.

What I Would’ve Done Differently

If I could go back, I probably would’ve joined a few sports clubs, just to meet more people and stay active. I also would’ve pushed myself to leave my room more often. Sometimes I found myself just staying in, and honestly, that wasn’t great for my mental health.

How It’s Influenced My Future

This year has opened up a lot of doors, especially through the Design Factory network. Knowing that there are Design Factories all over the world—even in places like London or Japan—makes me feel like I have a real edge. I could walk into one and say, “I’ve already worked with the Stuttgart team,” and that’s powerful. It’s a network I definitely want to keep tapping into.
For my final year, I want to be more structured in how I develop and propose ideas. I want to ideate more deeply, focus on discovery, and build stronger, clearer solutions.

What’s Next for Me

There’s a lot I’m looking forward to—learning 3D modelling, going home for a bit, and just working on personal growth. I want to finally get my driving licence, get into the gym, make new friends, and maybe—just maybe—train for a marathon. That last one’s ambitious, but I’m into it.
This year abroad has been more than just an academic experience—it’s been about becoming the person I want to be.

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