YouSee is a creative zine designed to visually engage DAAP freshmen by introducing them to the diverse buildings on the University of Cincinnati's campus, encouraging exploration beyond their primary academic space.
Traditionally, DAAP students spend most of their time in a single building, which can make it difficult to connect with and utilize other campus resources. This project aims to foster a greater sense of belonging by helping students navigate and engage with the broader university environment.
Design Research
2024
Based on both observation and experience as a student, it was found that DAAP spaces are overcrowded, making it difficult for students to find space that suits their specific workspace preferences.
Students will block out many hours or even entire days in the private library spaces, leaving only quiet-area tables open for students attempting to work in group spaces.
Professors commonly conduct project critique sessions in the larger hallway spaces located on the grand staircase and in other locations on DAAP's fifth floor, this minimizes space for student movement, seating, and increases hallway noise exponentially.
This is a common meeting space for students to eat, mingle with peers, or do work; however, since the start of the covid-19 pandemic, there have been far fewer spaces for students to sit. This means the space is typically filled, making it difficult for more students to find space there.
Bright and dynamic graphics–bold colors, striking typography, and creative layouts to grab attention
Custom map to represent buildings and their unique features clearly
Student-centric imagery: photos or graphics that depict familiar building views to foster relatability
Tailored content of spaces and information that are accessible and relevant to freshmen
Compact and portable size so it's easy for students to carry around campus
Exploration incentives in the form of stickers to motivate the students to go visit these spaces
Students were given a series of slips of paper containing aspects about each study space and were asked to highlight content about different buildings to help identify which information they found most valuable and interesting. This helped to identify and develop personalities for each study space and content written in an inviting and conversational tone.
“Serenity in the Stacks”
If quiet is what you crave, Blegen Library is your haven. This library combines academic charm with peaceful corners where deep concentration flourishes. The lower level is especially serene, ideal for those long study marathons.
“A Modern Study Haven”
With its contemporary design and abundance of natural light, is an excellent change of scenery for studying or a mid-day reset. Spacious workstations and innovative seating arrangements create an inviting atmosphere.
“Where Connections Come Alive.”
Your go-to spot for energy and collaboration. Whether you’re seeking a cozy corner to read or a lively space for group projects, Steger offers it all. The third-floor lounge has comfortable seating and great views—perfect for a creative boost.
“The Heart of Campus Energy”
Pulse of campus life. With its buzzing environment, it’s ideal for breaks and focused study sessions alike. Grab a window seat on the second floor for a bright, inspiring workspace or visit the food court for a refreshing break.
To decide what visual styles would be the most interactive and appealing to students within DAAP, students chose images from each category (map, building display, stylistic choices/added elements, color palettes) to create an “ideal” magazine. This ensured that each design choice made would be based on student aesthetic preferences and would be closer aligned to their interests.
To continue connecting DAAP students to campus spaces, these next phases would be implemented in order to support the students from first knowledge of a space to the interaction and use of that space. This would also open up abilities to support the greater student population on campus since later phases would branch into sections of campus that aren't exclusive to DAAP students.
Design and implement intuitive signage within buildings to guide students effectively, incorporating clear visual language, accessible features, and optional digital integration like QR codes.
Create engaging pathways between buildings using sidewalk art installations, directional markers, or interactive features like scannable QR codes with trivia or AR experiences.
