i'm renee.
I design by putting people first.
I didn’t always know I wanted to be a product designer.
Growing up, I actually wanted to be an architect. I loved the idea of designing spaces people could move through and experience. But as I got deeper into it, I realized decisions were often aesthetic-driven. I wanted to understand the why behind every detail, to design based on how people actually think and behave. That's when I found product design, and it just fit.
Now I'm studying Design and Environmental Analysis at Cornell, with minors in Information Science and Entrepreneurship. I've gotten involved in design communities at Cornell, working with Digital Tech & Innovation on student-facing platforms and leading at Design Consulting, where I collaborate with other designers and share critiques. Being part of these communities has taught me that the best work happens when you're constantly learning from others and challenging your own assumptions.
I'm always looking for ways to make things better, both in and outside of design. Even if it's just labeling my spice jars so cooking feels less chaotic, I can't help but fix what feels off. I’m optimistic that things can always be better— and I’m excited to make them happen.
As an optimist, I tend to like a lot of things…
but here are a few of my favorites:
places i love being.
Cornell's dHIVE studio, where I do most of my thinking (and sometimes napping).
Thrift stores, where I'm on the hunt for my next fashion statement.
The beach.
things i love doing.
Ice skating— I’ve retired from competing, but I still glide (and sometimes stumble) just for the joy of it.
Making jewelry started as something my mom did for me, and now I love creating pieces to share with others.
Putting together crazy breakfast foods is my secret hobby (bonus points if it includes anything banana).
