Project Mentor
Prof. Ting Zhou
Department: Digital Media & Design
Research Project Overview:
The SHARE apprentice will assist in conducting a literature review on the current state of the mental health crisis on college campuses, including its causes, impacts, and existing digital interventions. They will explore research on design approaches for mental health, such as gamification, digital storytelling, UI/UX for accessibility, and immersive experiences.
This research will inform future design projects that aim to create user-friendly, engaging, and effective tools for mental health awareness and support. Through this apprenticeship, the student will gain experience in academic research, human-centered design principles, and the role of digital media in addressing social challenges.
Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:
A SHARE apprentice will support this research-driven creative project by conducting a literature review on the mental health crisis and design interventions for mental health. Their contributions will include:
- Reviewing academic and industry literature on mental health challenges, particularly among adolescents and young adults, as well as the role of digital interventions.
- Analyzing design strategies used in mental health-focused digital applications, websites, and VR experiences, identifying best practices and potential gaps.
- Synthesizing findings to create an annotated bibliography or research summary that will inform the development of future design projects.
- Presenting insights through written reports or visual summaries to help translate research into actionable design considerations.
Learning Outcomes
Through this apprenticeship, the student will:
- Develop research skills – Gain experience in conducting a literature review, identifying credible sources, and synthesizing key findings.
- Explore the intersection of design and mental health – Understand how human-centered design can support mental health interventions and awareness.
- Improve critical analysis skills – Learn to evaluate digital interventions and assess their effectiveness.
Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:
This apprenticeship is flexible and can work around the student’s summer commitments while ensuring steady progress.
- Hours Per Week: About 5-8 hours per week, with flexibility based on workload.
- Work Schedule: The student can choose their work hours but should spread them out across the week.
- Meetings: We will have weekly virtual check-ins to discuss progress and provide feedback. Meeting times will be set based on mutual availability.
- Project Timeline: Work will take place over the summer and should be completed by the end of the SHARE program. Starting early in the summer is ideal.
- Flexibility: The student can balance this with summer courses, internships, or other commitments, as long as they stay on track and attend check-ins.
Preferred Qualifications:
This apprenticeship is designed for early-career students with an interest in research, mental health, and UI/UX design.
- Strong writing and analytical skills – Ability to read, summarize, and organize research findings clearly.
- Interest in mental health and social impact design – A curiosity about how design can support mental well-being.
- Attention to detail – Careful review of academic sources and ability to synthesize key ideas.
To Apply:
The application opens on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Click here to submit an online application for this research apprenticeship through the Quest Portal. The application deadline is Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:59pm.
Click here to view an outline of the general application questions. There are no additional questions for this apprenticeship.
Please note:
All students hired for a SHARE Summer apprenticeship must complete a federal I-9 form and present original documents in person to OUR staff as part of the hiring process. Visit this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page for more information about acceptable documents. You cannot begin working until this is complete. Students are encouraged to plan ahead for this. For example, if you are going home for spring break, consider bringing original documents back to campus with you.