Patrycja Paszkiewicz

Before I introduce myself I’d like to ask the person who is reading this to take a look around you. Notice the products that surround you. Perhaps you see a chair, a table, maybe a shoe, a car, or a computer keyboard and mouse, even the digital device you are reading off of at this very moment. All of these objects have been designed by a team or an individual who calls themselves an industrial designer. About 90% of the objects we encounter were conceptualized and brought to life as a physical artifact by industrial designers. These creative minds continue to contribute to better the quality of all life even though many people do not know of us. 

The Product Design Program at Montclair State University helped me better my quality of life, not only through education, but through opportunity as well. I am an upcoming graduate of class of 2023 and was able to explore a significant design mission that has a great impact on those affected with limb loss. As a transfer student I have an Associates Degree in Engineering Sciences and during my final semester at Bergen Community College I realized that I deeply carved a creative outlet in my life. I took a leap of faith and joined Product Design here at Montclair State. I transferred over in late 2019 because I sensed that the program had more to offer than other schools with a similar program.

Joining the Product Design Program proved itself to be one of the best decisions I’ve made to this day. Without this program, I would not have been able to create a prosthetic for myself and help create an alternative foundation of human powered prosthetics for those in need. Without the knowledge passed down from my peers and the phenomenal group of faculty I would not have had the opportunity to help others with their needs and desires, not to the extent that this program provides. 

Although small, this program has plenty to offer its students. As one of the few product/industrial design programs in the state, the success rate of our students surpasses those of the students from other design schools in NJ. The reputation of the program at this University has remained high throughout the years and students have been recognized by their talents that were obtained and refined though the curriculum. The students that graduate from the product design program do not just go on to have jobs. We go on to change lifestyles, create experiences, and improve the lives of many. 

So to those who have the power to decide the fate of the Product Design Program at Montclair State University, I only ask for one thing; do not give up on the students. Take the leap of faith.

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