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Junior Abbie Simon represented �����Ƶ’s School of Interior Architecture at the 18th International Conference on Design Principles and Practice in Valencia, Spain earlier this semester.

Simon was the youngest presenter at the conference, which focused on the culture of transformative design. Since 2021, she has been working as a research assistant for Milagros Zingoni, director of the school, in partnership with Assistant Professor Caglar Tas and PhD candidate Jessica Parker in UT’s Department of Psychology.

“Using eye tracking software, we are understanding design goals for our stakeholders,” she said. The pair aim to improve curriculum by better removing aspects of design that are inherently understood by incoming students, in- and outside of the School of Interior Architecture. Their research is investigating branding, community, sustainability, and wellness, the area Simon is drawn to most.

The College of Architecture and Design and School of Interior Architecture helped financially support Simons’ travels and conference costs.

“As educators, it’s our duty to nurture curiosity and empower our students to pursue their passions beyond the confines of our classrooms,” said Zingoni. “Supporting Abbie to present this research internationally isn’t just about showcasing their academic achievements; it’s about fostering a global perspective and instilling in them the confidence to make meaningful contributions to the world.”

A native of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the conference was Simon’s first trip out of the country. During the conference, she was able to learn from PhD candidates across the world and network with international researchers.

“I’m so grateful for the college and our faculty for supporting everything I’ve pursued at UT. I’m reminded every day that I made the right choice for my education,” she said.