Curious Guide is an initiative designed to support international students at TU Dublin. It is a university-based project I developed in collaboration with two other designers, Sammi Yip and Laura Apalmo. As multi-ethnic and bilingual individuals, we have each experienced what it means to feel foreign in a university environment. This is a distinct and often challenging experience, full of nuances that may not be immediately apparent to local students.
To address this, we created a website offering clear, accessible information on topics that international students typically need to research such as campus facilities, visa requirements, local slang, and more.
Our design approach prioritised simplicity and functionality, to ensure the platform is easy to navigate and pleasant to use.
We also developed a printed component of Curious Guide: a set of index cards containing concise versions of key information and essential contacts that a TU Dublin student might need.
The awareness campaign for our project included Curious Cards—promotional cards featuring brief, helpful information—and posters displaying personal photographs of individuals from various countries. These materials were placed throughout the campus to create a more welcoming environment and to assert a sense of belonging within the college space.
Another aspect of the awareness campaign was a social event aimed at helping international students connect and socialise. For this, our team designed a set of game cards featuring questions intended to encourage conversation, share ‘foreign’ experiences, and foster a sense of connection.