If we want to understand each other, we have to take the first step. So I stepped into my classmates’ shoes. For my thesis, I chose three of my classmates and their thesis projects, then designed and branded mini shoeboxes filled with resources to support their causes.

I placed six of each mini shoebox in a large, interactive display box. These were free for others to take, but not without intention. Empathy isn’t always easy or obvious. There was no big sign saying “free.” Instead, users had to open the large shoebox to discover the mini ones inside. When opened, a switch triggered a recording of each classmate’s voice, inviting the user to take a box and learn more. The invitation was also written inside the large box, on a banner, and within each mini shoebox.

It takes effort and awareness to truly walk in someone else’s shoes. This project is about encouraging that kind of empathy: empathy that is intentional, active, and deeply needed in today’s world.

SPECS AND TECH
Interaction Design/ Illustrator/ Photoshop/ Design Thinking/ Packaging Design/ Branding/ Print/ Exacto Knife Skills/ Cricut