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Five HCDE students recognized in Husky 100


April 10, 2018

Five undergraduate students in the Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering have been recognized in the 2018 cohort of the Husky 100.

The Husky 100 recognizes 100 students from across UW's Bothell, Seattle, and Tacoma campus in all areas of study who are making the most of their time at the UW—both inside and outside of the classroom. Husky 100 recipients are selected based their commitment to inclusive community, a capacity for leadership, and a discovery mindset.

Representing HCDE in the 2018 Husky 100 are:

Samantha Gil VargasSamantha Gil Vargas

Yakima, WA
BS, Human Centered Design & Engineering

Throughout my Husky Experience, I have learned that as a designer I have the power to actively listen to marginalized communities so that I can better design a society fit for all of us. I’ve learned this through various experiences like studying abroad in Japan, interning at the Institute of Learning and Brain Sciences, facilitating an outreach ASB program with HCDE and volunteering at ROOTS.

Sharon HeungSharon Heung

Kirkland, WA
BS, Human Centered Design & Engineering, 
BS, Global Health

From volunteering at the Intensive Care Unit to co-authoring a publication on the design of multimedia platforms, I am passionate about the intersection of engineering, design and health. Currently, I am merging my interests by designing and building a transfer device for individuals with disabilities, using technology and design to empower people and encourage inclusion. I am incredibly thankful for my UW experience and look forward to many more opportunities to grow during my time here.

Melissa MedskerMelissa Medsker (Galloway)

Vancouver, WA
BS, Human Centered Design & Engineering
BS, Computer Science

From making the switch from pre-med to computer science, to discovering a passion for research and teaching, to finding my voice through various TA and leadership roles, my Husky Experience has been defined by discovery and a growing appreciation of the value of taking risks. I look forward to continue this experience in a master's program, working toward a career in academia where I can pursue teaching while engaging in interdisciplinary research in CS, biochemistry and STEM education.

Tsewone MelakuTsewone Melaku

Seattle, WA
BS, Human Centered Design & Engineering

As a Black woman who is a first-generation college student and the daughter of Ethiopian immigrants, the UW has provided me with the experiences and skills I need to realize that I want to use my engineering degree to increase STEM exposure and education in underserved communities. According to most of the world, I should not be here. And that's exactly why I have to be.

Burren PeilBurren Peil 

Auburn, WA
BS, Human Centered Design & Engineering
BA, Comparative History of Ideas

In the HCDE Department, I have enjoyed working as a lead course assistant and have helped shape the course towards an emphasis on mentoring and inclusivity. My personal research is on using virtual reality technology to facilitate compassion across differing identities as a proactive approach to social equity.

Congratulations to all of the Husky 100 recipients. Read about the full 2018 cohort, here.