Tia completed her Product Design Engineering degree at Brunel University of London and is now seeking the ideal opportunity to kickstart her career in inclusive, user-centred design. Since graduating, Tia has remained actively engaged with the alumni community, volunteering at various events, including co-hosting the Alumni of the Year Awards 2024 and compering the Giving Day 2024 Musical Bingo event. Here we ask her more about why she thinks being part of the alumni network is important and what her plans for the future are!
What inspired you to volunteer with alumni events at Brunel University of London?
Brunel offered me a wealth of opportunities—from the Professional Development Centre to the Brunel Summer Internship Programme and the vibrant Student Union. I made it my mission to experience as much as I could, (treating Brunel like a bingo card!) and these diverse interactions enriched my skills and outlook. Now, as an alumna, I’m eager to give back, share my journey with current students, and connect with other alumni who have made their mark post-Brunel.
What do you think is the most valuable part of being part of an alumni community?
Being part of the alumni community opens doors to a broad, cross-disciplinary network. This network is a powerful resource where knowledge, insights, and experiences are shared freely. I believe that having access to this community is invaluable for growth and inspiration, especially in navigating and contributing to such diverse fields.
How has your experience at Brunel University of London shaped your career plans for the next few years, and what specific goals do you have in mind?
My Brunel experience has been transformative. It gave me confidence and affirmed that I could merge art with functionality in impactful ways. Over the next few years, I aim to deepen my expertise in design and inclusive innovation, particularly in healthcare and education. My goal is to create products that blend accessibility, sustainability, and beauty, enriching everyday experiences through thoughtful design.
What is your dream career or space that you would like to get into?
My ideal career would lie at the intersection of design, accessibility, and sustainability. Ideal roles for my skills include an Inclusive Product Designer focused on creating accessible solutions in healthcare and education, a Design Researcher dedicated to enhancing experiences through user research in cultural and educational contexts, a UI/UX Designer aimed at improving digital tools for arts and healthcare organizations, and a Sustainable Product Designer developing eco-friendly consumer goods and interior design using circular economy principles.
As you transition into your career, what areas do you feel you need support in, and how can Brunel and the alumni community help you with this?
As I start my career, building connections and finding mentors would be incredibly valuable. I am a fresh-faced graduate, eager to learn from experienced professionals, and the alumni community can provide both support and guidance. Advice from those who have navigated similar paths would be much-appreciated as I shape my career, and would help me thrive.
In your opinion, what role does the alumni community play in assisting graduates like you as they navigate their career paths?
The alumni community is an amazing asset that can help graduates gain insight and support in the industry. Platforms like LinkedIn make it easy to see where fellow alumni work, which can be motivating and a good way to start meaningful conversations. Alumni connections help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experiences.
What advice would you give current students at Brunel University of London about leveraging the alumni network for their own career development?
My advice is simple: put yourself out there. Say 'yes' to opportunities, step out of your comfort zone, and don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni. People are often eager to help when approached with respect and curiosity. Find common ground, ask questions, and approach every interaction with enthusiasm—it can open doors you never anticipated.
If you are a member of our alumni community and feel you support Tia or any of our recent graduates through mentorship, advice, or by sharing your experiences, we would love to hear from you! Please reach out to alumni@brunel.ac.uk. Together, let’s harness the incredible strength of our Brunel alumni community to empower the next generation.