download detailed resume (updated 2008_july)
My name is Sandra Mari Nakano and I am currently an M.F.A. Candidate in the Graduate Media Design Program at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. Art Center has been rated as one of the top design schools in the nation by Business Week.
Prior to entering the graduate program in the Fall of 2007, I studied Graphic Design for three terms at the undergraduate level. Before Art Center, I studied Graphic Design at Santa Monica College for two years as well as acquired a B.A. in Asian American Studies and a minor in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 2002.
I have over 4 years of experience working as a freelance graphic designer, designing identity systems, brochures, program booklets, websites and promotional materials. I also have experience in marketing and outreach for new and growing businesses, as well as for expos, workshops and performing arts events.
People ask me all the time, "So, what do you do as a Media Design student?" This is a tough question to answer because in many ways, it's a new field that combines design + media + research + people. As of now, I am trained to conduct research using graphic design and interaction design techniques. I am also being trained in interface design, interactive technologies, spatial design and information spaces. What is especially important about my graduate program is how it has strengthened my ability to conduct human–centered design research, as well as allowed me to explore how design affordances play a significant role in enhancing the impact of organizations, clients and everyday people I've had the privilege to work and interact with.
At the end of 2008, I will be transitioning into my thesis year. Though it's articulation is still in the works, my overall focus as of now will be on the building and improvement of sustainable and eco–conscious models of entrepreneurial business, design, architecture and living. I am especially interested in how we can reinvent spaces that will revive the true meaning of community and neighborhoods. I know it still sounds broad, but within this focus there are ideas simmering about everything from rooftop and vertical farms to backyard garden social networking sites.
Please feel free to download my resume to get a better feel of my experiences, and please contact me if you have an questions at mari.nakano@gmail.com.
thank you.