"The most transformative aspect of participating in the Intelligence++ course was the profound shift it fostered in my perspective on design as a collaborative and inclusive process. I loved how the course encouraged me to think critically about how products can serve neurodivergent communities—not just functionally, but in ways that provide agency, dignity, and joy. The emphasis on research-based, user-centered design and the dialogues we shared with classmates, mentors, and guest speakers expanded my understanding of the intersection of design, identity, and inclusivity.

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What I walked away with was more than just a toolkit—it was a mindset. The course equipped me with the confidence to question assumptions, co-create with empathy, and embrace ambiguity in the design process.

 

My project, Wear-it Fidgit (later Jestures), exemplifies this evolution: it’s not just about creating products, but about crafting adaptive systems that empower users to navigate their environments with comfort and agency. The experience also gave me a network of collaborators and thought partners whose insights continue to inform my work, from integrating fidgeting into fashion to shaping new questions about neurodivergent accessibility in design."