Alumni

Christina Arndt

Design

BA Product Design

Graduation Year: 2018

Briefly describe your current job/studies. Is it typical for a graduate in Product Design?

I am currently continuing my education at the TU Berlin (Technical University) with a master in Innovation management, Entrepreneurship and Sustainability. In my bachelor’s degree of product design, the concept of working as a self-employed designer is often touched upon. I wanted to strengthen my business sense and get a better understanding of the business aspects of developing and implementing innovation. In my studies there are rarely any product designers, but the fields are closely related.

Describe a typical study-workday for you.

As a student I study and go to lectures- this is nothing new. In my job in the research institute I organize events, take care of the professors and students in my faculty, and contribute on scientific work. Usually my day is split between many tasks and work-places.

What is the most challenging work/study situation you have faced and how did you overcome it?

At the beginning of my studies I was still trying to work as a freelance designer. The challenge here was manifold. For one, acquiring new customers as a young designer is challenging but also balancing your time. The most valuable work situation next to time management which I overcame with a schedule and combining tasks cleverly. I think the most difficult situation was being frequently asked to work for free – here the solution was simple, I did not agree to do that anymore.

What did you take from your time as a student at BI and what are you able to apply most frequently?

I believe in a creative industry a network is especially important. It‘s not important to have all the answers but to know who to ask. The ability to communicate a creative idea with a good visual backdrop has proven to be extremely helpful. Design can be a tool to make your ideas easily understandable.

What projects are you currently involved in or planning for the future?

I am studying and working as I mentioned above. I am also head of the BIAA the Berlin International Alumni Association. I am doing independent research on new materials and fill a position as a material expert in an NGO concerned with 3D printing. In the future I would like to extend my research and combine my creative work with the scientific and make sustainable material alternatives. In the next couple of years, I would also like to start my own company.

Do you have any advice for current Product design students?

There is not one career in product design. think about what you can contribute to the field and do not be as concerned with what the industry needs. Product design for me is also a way of thinking, iterating an idea- do not underestimate this skill of coming up with a solution in a set context.