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Five HCDE students in the Husky 100

The Husky 100 recognizes 100 students from across UW’s three campuses in all areas of study who are making the most of their time at UW—both inside and outside of the classroom

Portrait of Samantha

Samantha 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.

Portrait of Sharon

Sharon 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.

Portrait of Melissa

Melissa 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.

Portrait of Tsewone

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

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.

Portrait of Burren

Burren 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.