Design for Passion

Design for Passion is a 9-10 week, student-led, UX design or research project organized by the University of Washington’s Human Centered Design and Engineering Graduate Student Association (GSA). Students work in teams of 2-4 to conduct a usability study, redesign a specific section of a website, app, or other interface.

Become an industry sponsor

Why join Design for Passion?

• Collaborate with talented design student volunteers for 9-10 weeks over the summer – for free!
• Gain new design and/or research insights around your product or organization.
• Choose from evaluative (usability study) or generative (exploring the future of XYZ) projects.

What we need from you:

• Meet with the organizing team to discuss your proposed project ideas.
• Pitch your project idea.
• Designate a point of contact to work with student teams throughout the program.

Program details

• Timeline: June 20 to August 18 (aligns with UW’s Summer Quarter schedule).
• Teams: 2-4 students (incoming and current HCDE students).
• Project types: UX design and research projects.
• Projects are student-led and chosen by students (this is not a "work-for hire").

Mentor expectations

Each student team will be paired with an industry mentor.

Mentors will:

• Meet regularly (weekly or biweekly) with students.
• Provide project advice, direction, and design skill insights.
• Share professional experience and career advice.

Mentors will not:

• Lead or execute design projects for students.
• Be available 24/7 for questions.

Student expectations

• Commitment: 4-6 hours per week.
• Meet regularly with mentors and project sponsors.
• Participate in cohort check-ins, critiques, and presentations.
• Provide peer feedback.
• Team matching process.

How it works:

• Students submit an About Me card detailing their interests.
• Project pitches (sponsored and self-directed) will be introduced.
• Teams form based on shared interests in FigJam and breakout rooms.
• Project sign-up is first come, first served.