During my occupational therapy clinical rotation, I had the chance to conduct my first patient evaluation. At the time, I didn’t realize it, but I was doing more than just assessing a patient—I was designing. Through careful craft, close observation, and critical thinking, I was making decisions that would shape the patient's care and ultimately their path to a more meaningful life.

For me, design is more than aesthetics; it’s a process of empowering and educating others to live fully and purposefully. While I wasn’t practicing “traditional design” in the healthcare setting, the experiences I gained there shaped my approach to design. They honed my ability to think critically, act empathetically, and create solutions that truly serve others.

As a born-and-raised New Yorker (yes, the best city in the world), I’ve always been drawn to the rich diversity around me. From savoring the incredible culinary gems scattered across the boroughs to passionately following the ups and downs of New York sports (currently, a hot mess… but we stay strong), the city is my world. When I’m not soaking up everything NYC has to offer, you’ll likely find me chasing new adventures—spending way too much on flights because, hey, you only get one shot at your 20s.