Design for Passion

Design for Passion is a 9-10 week, student-led, UX design or research project organized by the University of Washington’s Human Centered Design and Engineering Graduate Student Association (GSA). Students work in teams of 2-4 to conduct a usability study, redesign a specific section of a website, app, or other interface.

Become an industry sponsor

Design for Passion 2025 connects sponsors with student teams for a 9-week summer design sprint, running June 14–August 16. We welcome nonprofits, startups, small businesses, civic and community organizations to join us as sponsors.

Submit your project idea

Why join Design for Passion?

• Collaborate with talented design student volunteers for 9-10 weeks over the summer – for free!
• Gain new design and/or research insights around your product or organization.
• Choose from evaluative (usability study) or generative (exploring the future of XYZ) projects.

What we need from you:

• Meet with the organizing team to discuss your proposed project ideas.
• Pitch your project idea.
• Designate a point of contact to work with student teams throughout the program.

Program details:

• Timeline: June 14 to August 16 (aligns with UW’s Summer Quarter schedule).
• Teams: 2-4 students (incoming and current HCDE students).
• Project types: UX design and research projects.
• Projects are student-led and chosen by students (this is not a "work-for hire").

Mentor expectations

Each student team will be paired with an industry mentor.

Mentors will:

• Meet regularly (weekly or biweekly) with students.
• Provide project advice, direction, and design skill insights.
• Share professional experience and career advice.

Mentors will not:

• Lead or execute design projects for students.
• Be available 24/7 for questions.

Student expectations

• Commitment: 4-6 hours per week.
• Meet regularly with mentors and project sponsors.
• Participate in cohort check-ins, critiques, and presentations.
• Provide peer feedback.
• Team matching process.

How it works:

• Students submit an About Me card detailing their interests.
• Project pitches (sponsored and self-directed) will be introduced.
• Teams form based on shared interests in FigJam and breakout rooms.
• Project sign-up is first come, first served.