I am Zach

Design Fuego

I study Biomedical Engineering

I am a freshman at the Swanson School of Engineering here at the University of Pittsburgh. The classes that I am taking right now are "The Art of Making", Linear algebra, Physics 2, Chem 2, and this course. Last semester I really enjoyed the engineering analysis course that I took, which helped me further develop my coding ability. I am currently an undeclared engineering major, but I plan to major in biomedical engineering. The track that I am planning on taking in biomedical engineering is the medical devices design track, which would also let me get a minor in mechanical engineering.

An orange flower made up of much smaller flowers

Knowledge, Tools, and Skills

I have had a lot of experience working with coding languages including both HTML and css. My experience will let me focus more on the design portions without having to worry about any coding. I would describe myself as a maker, I really enjoy building things and making things that are my own. I am an amateur photographer and I really enjoy how photography is able ot capture so much more than just a still image. I want to learn how to communicate with a diverse audience through more than just my writing. Especially the fundementals and basics, such as how simple design changes can make large differences in understanding of a message.

A puffin perched in a crevice along a cliff

What is good design?

Good design is design that is easily understood and easy to look use. Design can take many forms, it can be an art form, seeking to be understood, or it could be something that is used, which tries to be easily used. Most of the experiences that I have with design are through physical designs of everyday items, such as tools or furniture.

A diagram of a handle and how it will fit into a hand comfortably. A table in the shape of a 'U' to foster discussion.
A building that incorporates greenspace into its design, limiting its effect on the environment. An infographic describing effective ways to display your information.
An interior design in a house where all colors fit together aesthetically. A traffic circle

Good Design

In the Future

After school I am considering going to med-school, but I'm really unsure about that. More likely I would want to get a job designing medical equipment. I really enjoy designing all sorts of machines/robots and I think that going into a medical field would be the most fufilling route. As I grew up I was definetly drawn to stem related fields and engineering in particular. I was also always interested in the design aspect of engineering, leading me to either mechanical or biomedical. I think that this class will help me think more about the importance of design and ease of use and understanding.

An Island with a little house on it