Anika Nambisan is bringing the heat as our first Fresh Encounter from Cohort 11! An already accomplished designer and former basketball player, Nambisan is passionate about inclusive and accessible design and the ways that it can impact our futures. Learn more about the incredible year-long project Nambisan designed and installed, as well as her goals for her time at IYA below. 

Tell us a little bit about your journey to IYA. What were you looking for in an undergraduate program?

My design journey began at a lab at Berkeley where I collaborated on innovative educational methods for teaching math to students with extreme motor disabilities. After designing props for the board game and becoming a published illustrator for the book that goes along with it, I fell deeply in love with what design can do.

To me, the Iovine and Young Academy was the perfect next step in my academic journey due to my interests in inclusive product design and its potential for positive change.

What are you most looking forward to at IYA?

I’m especially excited about IYA’s [Challenge-Based Reflective Learning] approach; it'll deepen my understanding of design's societal impact. The focus on innovation and sustainability aligns with my goal of shaping a more accessible future through design.

What are three goals you want to accomplish during your time at IYA and/or USC?

Build lifelong connections with my peers and professors

Continue to learn more about inclusive design

Let’s say you were miraculously provided $1,000,000 in seed funding tomorrow. What would you create?

With $1,000,000 in seed funding, I’d focus on developing innovative wearable tech to assist with dementia care, blending advanced technology with compassionate design to improve quality of life and support caregivers.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest achievement to date is definitely the completion of my year-long project to design and install a unique light structure at SAVE (an organization dedicated to helping survivors of intimate partner violence and offering guidance through the difficult time). The light structure, installed in SAVE’s teen lounge, is meant to contribute to a sense of calmness. I used a laser cutter and acrylic sheets to achieve its distinctive form, acrylic paint to create the immersive color experience, and a lightbulb to bring the structure to life. My approach focused on harnessing the power of color and light to enhance safety and comfort within the Safe House environment. By strategically incorporating calming colors and adjustable lighting, I was able to create a space that promotes tranquility and reduces stress for youth seeking refuge at SAVE).

Describe one thing most people don’t know about you.

I’ve played in the California State Championships for the Division 1 Semifinals for high school girl’s basketball.

What is one thing a significant person in your life taught you that you’d like to share?

“Next one’s in!” - My basketball coach taught me that no matter how many shots I miss, I have to believe that the next one I take will go in; it’s a mindset that has taken me far in life, and will continue to serve me well.

What is your favorite app/website and why?

Twitter/X because people have the best comedic timing and are incredibly witty.

If you could be any kitchen appliance, what would you be and why? 

What do you like to do/watch/read during your downtime?

I love to read murder mysteries because they are so thrilling and always have me by the edge of my seat.

What do you consider the most impactful invention in history and why?

I believe cameras are the most impactful invention because they capture and preserve moments, allowing us to relive memories and share experiences. They shape both personal and collective histories through visual storytelling.

What would the title of your autobiography be?

Designs of my Life; design has always been a large part of my life and it feels essential to have it within the title.

Tell us about a movie that means something to you. 

Although seen as just a light-hearted “chick flick,” Legally Blonde holds significant meaning for me as Elle Woods, the protagonist, exemplifies how to challenge stereotypes, embrace femininity, and pursue one’s dreams with determination and confidence. Her journey is a powerful reminder that being yourself and not taking yourself too seriously can lead to unexpected and rewarding success.

I’m inspired by the people that always have a smile on their face regardless of the circumstances they face; it reminds me to be grateful for everything I have and realize my privilege.

FRESH Encounters: Anika Nambisan

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