Challenge
Design an experience that allows mentors and mentees to discover each other in addition to mentors staying in connection with mentees and vice versa.
There are many applications targeted towards college students, either by a third-party company or by the college themselves, but not every application offers a network of mentors and groups on campus. Even if they do, they’re not personal or simply students forget they have it on their phones.
Approach
I interviewed current students, teachers, and faculty members at nearby colleges about their experiences with trying to reach out to teachers, finding groups and clubs to join, and overall understanding the institution they were attending. Based on interviews, I gathered the information and devised a plan for this application and its features.
Impact
Other than a few changes, users were pleased by the concept and also mentioned that it was simple and easy to understand.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Mentor Connect was a thought-provoking project. If I were to continue on with this project, I would add more features to help students and teachers connect more (adding "dark mode", and a forum perhaps, and adding more "human" connections instead of just a stagnant feel). I would also love to keep digging into research and talking with potential users for an added update (especially updates with the pandemic in 2020).
Research
Based on the research conducted, Students want to see data-driven customization in four areas: Career preparation, such as job assistance and interview training, Finance support, such as tuition and financial aid, academic support, such as course registration and grade tracking and Student life, such as housing and student organizations.
Wireframing and Design Pattern
From paper sketches to the final result. Always start with pen and paper, trying to focus on the essential structure, quick and painless navigation, and basic functionality.
I did Not want to visually go overboard with it so I decided to make the UI as “soft” and professional as possible. Some of the users expressed having some anxiety about either starting college or when they completed their first day.
I did Not want to visually go overboard with it so I decided to make the UI as “soft” and professional as possible. Some of the users expressed having some anxiety about either starting college or when they completed their first day.
UI Kit
Finish Product
Thank You!
Stock Photos - Adobe Stock