This Year’s Media Design Cohort Experience and Advice

Back Row: Codie, Yuling, Paula, Ibrahim, Riddhima

Front Row: Lexie, Neve, Emerson, Yaqi

Students from across the world came to Boston to immerse themselves in Emerson’s Media Design master’s program—a one-year residency where students learn about driving social change through a variety of mediums. 

Many students said they chose the program because of its values centered around creating social justice across the globe, which fit well with students’ personal values. Others were excited by the course material and learning how to innovatively use their design skills. In addition to course content, the program’s location in the heart of Boston also attracted many students.  

About a month into the program, students feel it both meets and challenges their initial expectations. One student described the professors as “amazing” and finds that the program is engaging. Another student is particularly impressed with the Media Design Studio, as the class fosters a desire for them to create. 

After graduating, some students have their hearts set on pursuing a Ph.D., becoming user interface designers, or working to support specific communities, such as youth groups. Other students are unsure of the road that lies ahead but know they want to find a job in the creative design field. 

For prospective applicants, current students say that they should feel comfortable showing their true personality, both in the application and if accepted to the program. 

One student, Emerson Holloway, wrote: 

“Stay curious, enthusiastic, and driven. Ask a lot of questions and talk about what motivates you! I have found that everyone involved with the program is eager to learn as well as provide information about the program. Everyone within the program has a desire to keep learning and growing as human beings, and if you feel that same way, act on it!” 

Media Design students' favorite spot in the Boston area:

Ibrahim Adeyemi Dorchester

Neve Chambers: Blossom Bar in Brookline

Yuling Chen:Boston Commons

Riddhima Dave: Esplanade 

Emerson Holloway: Delux Café or the Mass Ave. bridge that connects Boston to Cambridge

Yaqi Liu: Newbury Street

Chunxiaoxue Lu: ICA’s outdoor space

Abigail Nash:Boston Commons

Paula Andrea Ochoa Acorn Street in Beacon Hill

Codie Patnaude: Beacon Hill 

Tomina Saelee Chinatown