Tianxiao Wang

Design Engineering is more than just a degree; it’s a lifelong network and meshwork of innovators and influencers. However, the first step is always hard to take.

As a formal DE undergraduate and now PhD, I understand you and promise to narrow the college-industry gap to make you feel empowered to step into the professional world with confidence.

Talk is cheap, let me show you my actions. Mainly three things:

1. Strengthening the Undergraduate-Postgraduate-Alumni Bond

Proximity breeds opportunity. I will work closely with our talk manager and hackathon lead to invite graduated DE alumni back to campus, or meet us more often remotely. Imagine having microsoft and IBM consultant to give you real-world feedback on your current projects while giving you a direct line to industry insights.

2. Demystifying Professional Networking

Okay. We’ve all felt that "what should I say?" anxiety when you made a new connection on LinkedIn. I will develop and distribute the "DE Networking Playbook"—an openly accessible digital resource featuring:

• The 30-Second Icebreaker: Tailored templates for LinkedIn and in-person events.

• Conversation starters: focused on DE-specific topics and career paths (Energy, Sustainability, UX, Robotics).

• Follow-up Etiquette: How to turn a brief chat into a lasting mentorship.

3. Delivering monthly inspiration: The Alumni Spotlight

I will publish an "Alumni Story" via our newsletter and social media every two month. These won't just be bios; they will be deep dives into the "messy middle"—the failures, the pivots, and the specific DE skills performed daily.

Let's design a better innovation network.