Nadine’s senior thesis project, Dissecting the dot

CD alumna Nadine Muhtadi is currently the junior designer at Noë & Associates, a brand consultancy based in New York. Her work calls attention to the miniscule, unnoticed details in everyday life and presents them in a sophisticated way. We checked in with Nadine to see how she has progressed since graduating from Parsons in 2014.

Nadine’s work with Noë & Associates for clothing company, SemSem

Nadine’s personal project, A scanned diary

Nadine’s work with Noë & Associates for The Salon, an art + design fair in New York

What were your favorite classes at Parsons?

Natasha Chandani’s Publication Design, Brian Watterson’s Core Interaction, and Thesis.

What did you wish you knew as a student that you know now?

To take time to really experiment with ideas and concepts — you don’t get to do that once you have to work for a client. I wish I knew how important it is to create strong friendships and bonds with like-minded people, and to intern at the most eccentric places.

Experience is everything — you have nothing to lose as a student.

Who do you look up to in the design community?

I have always struggled with having a specific design muse, so I wouldn’t say there is one individual person I look up to. I admire people who create simple, clean design which leaves an impact while staying cool and classic. I also deeply respect designers who really envelop themselves in their work; I don’t mean working long hours, but those who have hobbies or side projects that are a continuation of their day jobs.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I have been lucky to work with great people at Noë & Associates. Because it’s a smaller company, I have the opportunity to deal directly with clients. Seeing a finished project become real is a great feeling.