Kristina is currently an All But Dissertation (ABD) doctoral candidate at the University of Baltimore, pursuing a degree in Information and Interaction Design. Her research is at the intersection of emerging technology and cognitive development, with a specialized focus on how augmented reality (AR) can be leveraged to improve cognitive abilities in young adults. When she is not working on her research, she is working as a Product Designer and a freelance cheerleading coach and choreographer.

What’s your biggest challenge as a designer or creative?

My biggest challenge as a designer is that I am interested in all things from scratch, when sometimes it’s more efficient to delegate tasks and/or use automated resources.

What’s a piece of advice that has stuck with you? 

If you want something you’ve never had, you must do something you’ve never done.

What are your top 3 favorite books or movies? (doesn’t have to be design-related) 

My favorite movies are Scary Movie 2, Malibu’s Most Wanted, and The Devil Wears Prada.

What’s one tool, object, or routine that helps you get through the workday? 

My notes app helps me recall all of my outstanding items from the previous day/week. I review that every morning before I begin my work.

What sparks creativity for you? 

Going outside and just looking at the world around me and thinking “how can I make that better?”. Also, I like exploring quirky shops to get inspiration for fonts and typography.

What do you love doing outside of design? 

Boxing and coaching cheerleading! I picked up boxing in 2024 and just stuck with it, and I am working on starting the process to compete. I did competitive cheerleading for 18 years and started coaching during my college years.

Social Media

Instagram: @chandyinnovationstudio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinacousley/