Tackling Hidden Stress in College: A Dive into Innovation and Relief for Non-Traditional Students
Have you ever wondered if it's possible to turn stress into something manageable, or even enjoyable? That's exactly what my collaborator, Nicole, and I set out to do in a project for my Creative Concepting course at Boise State University.
As a duo comprised of a dedicated mom returning to college and an over 30 first-time on-campus student navigating the pressures of adult education, we embarked on a mission to develop concepts that would alleviate the hidden stress and anxiety plaguing students, particularly non-traditional ones like us. The aim was not just to brainstorm but to innovate, creating practical solutions to enhance student life and mental well-being.
The Process: A Blend of Creativity and Analytical Thinking
The core of our project involved identifying the root causes of what's known in the academic sphere as "duck syndrome"—the phenomenon where students appear calm on the surface but are frantically paddling underneath. Among the myriad pressures faced by students are societal expectations, fear of failure, imposter syndrome, and a stark lack of support. We were tasked with an ambitious goal to generate at least 51 potential solutions addressing these issues.
To say this task stretched our creative and analytical skills would be an understatement. We employed a detailed mind-mapping technique to not only brainstorm but also categorize and prioritize the root causes of student stress. This method proved invaluable, allowing us to visualize connections and overlaps between various stressors and potential interventions.
The Outcome: From Outrageous to Practical
Our project led us to a diverse array of ideas, ranging from the wildly innovative to the straightforwardly practical. Among the standout concepts was adapting Journee Trip’s surprise destination concept to offer surprise outings tailored for non-traditional students. These monthly events are designed to sprinkle elements of adventure and spontaneity into students' routines, offering refreshing breaks and novel experiences without the stress of choice. Details such as dress code, whether the setting is indoors or outdoors, activity levels, and venue ratings are revealed two weeks in advance, with the exact destination announced on the day of the event.
Another concept that captured our imaginations was inspired by the energy of Jennifer Hudson’s Spirit Tunnel. We envisioned a pop-up event where students receive encouragement through cheers as they walk through the tunnel. Participants could select from various chants, celebrating everything from academic achievements like acing a test ("You got an A on your test because you're the best!") to personal milestones such as birthdays, or simply enjoy the uplift of a generic victory run through the tunnel.
On the more practical side, we proposed the creation of a Student Association for Non-Traditional Students (NTS). Drawing inspiration from successful models like the one at the University of Oregon, this association would serve as a crucial support network, offering resources, events, and community-building activities tailored to the unique needs and schedules of NTS.
Key Takeaways and Skills Applied
This project was not only a test of our ability to ideate but also a real-world application of several key skills:
Root Cause Analysis: We delved deep into each contributing factor of stress, ensuring that our solutions were targeted and effective.
Creative Problem Solving: Generating over 50 ideas required out-of-the-box thinking and the ability to see beyond conventional solutions.
Adaptability and Resilience: With my collaborator falling ill, I had to adapt quickly, relying on our preliminary discussions and my own insights to push the project forward.
The feedback from our peers and instructors was overwhelmingly positive, affirming the practicality and creativity of our solutions. This project not only enhanced our understanding of the challenges faced by non-traditional students but also reinforced our capabilities in tackling complex problems with innovative solutions.
Looking Ahead: Bridging Concepts and Brand Development
As I continue to navigate my career in brand development, graphic design, and marketing, the skills honed during this project will be invaluable. The ability to analyze deeply, think creatively, and execute strategically are cornerstones in developing brands that resonate and inspire.
I'm excited to carry forward these competencies, and applying them to real-world challenges and opportunities in brand development. Whether it's crafting compelling narratives or designing innovative services, the journey from concept to implementation is where my passion lies.
Stay tuned as I explore more intersections of creativity and practicality, driving innovation that makes a difference. Let's make the invisible visible and the unbearable bearable, one concept at a time!