It is our greatest pleasure to announce that Miss KWOK Hoi Yan Zoe from our BA(Hons) in Communication Design programme has been selected as a PolyU Outstanding Student for 2023. She is one of 28 winners from different departments, faculties and schools at PolyU. We had an opportunity to interview Zoe to learn about her personal growth story. Let’s dive into her extraordinary journey and discover the secrets behind her exceptional achievements.

^{Photo taken during internship, with Zoe Kwok on the right.} 

Q1: How has PolyU Design influenced your approach to design?

PolyU Design has played a significant role in shaping my approach to design. The programme has equipped me with crucial design-thinking skills, enabling me to tackle various situations with fresh perspectives. Collaborating with peers and engaging in meaningful conversations has sharpened my communication abilities. Furthermore, PolyU's extensive facilities, such as the Photography Studio, Print Shop and Production Workshops, have provided me invaluable opportunities to experiment with and explore diverse design production methods.

^{HAVE A WALK WITH ME IN TOKWAWAN By Zoe Kwok}

Q2: How do you see design playing an important role in our society? Can you discuss any projects you've been involved in that inspire you on Inclusiveness design?

Through my involvement in documenting my neighbourhood and creating prototypes that capture the daily experiences of its citizens, I have witnessed the significant role that design plays in addressing societal challenges and bringing about positive change. One project that particularly stands out is the Integrated Designpreneurship project, which allows students from various disciplines to come together as a group to tackle various social topics as their final-year capstone project. Engaging in discussions with my groupmates has enabled me to learn about design thinking from different perspectives and understand how design shapes our environments, influences our interactions, and even drives social change. This experience has truly inspired me in terms of inclusiveness design.

Q3: What characteristics you think an outstanding design student should have?

I believe an outstanding design student should possess curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, a questioning mindset, and a genuine concern for society. Driven by curiosity and a desire to learn, I sought diverse design opportunities throughout my studies. This allowed me to experience the transformative power of design and its potential to impact society positively.

Q4: Any reflections throughout your years in PolyU Design you could share with us?

Receiving the Outstanding Student Award is a true recognition of my dedication to design studies and a moment of reflection on my university journey. It means a lot to me, particularly as I am in my final year of study.

As I look back on my time at PolyU, I am grateful for the memories and lessons learned that will continue to guide me in the future. The foundation of skills, collaborative spirit, and passion for social impact that I developed during my studies will shape my path and inspire me to effectively utilise design to address pressing social issues in the future. I am excited about the opportunities and the positive impact I can make through design.

^{UNDISCOVERED By Zoe Kwok}

Story posted on 20 May, 2024