Trent Nesbitt

Degree: BS, Product Design, minor in Entrepreneurship

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2024

2023 Scholarship
Michael and Stacy Koehn Award

I Am Originally From Portland, OR

WHY I CAME TO THE UO AND HOW I CHOSE MY MAJOR
I chose the University of Oregon for it’s proximity to the mountains, for the cost, and most importantly for the program of Product Design. My favorite part about being in the College of Design is the feeling of getting an intimate education with small class sizes and professors who I’ve gotten to know while still being a part of a large university where I can take advantage of all the activities and resources associated with the school.

I’ve always wanted to work in art and design, but choosing Product Design specifically was a result of constantly wanting to work with different materials in my artistic experience through high school. Product Design seemed like the best fit for my desire to express in as many ways as possible.

MY INFLUENTIAL PROFESSORS
Hale Selek, Assistant Professor of Product Design, has had an incredible impact on my education at the University of Oregon. Hale has been an inspiration as both a professor and a designer. From her insights on specific designers and products in the industry, to her helpful commentary on studio projects, I’ve been lucky to have Hale as a professor.

MY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I am involved with the Oregon Club Freeride Team, and UO chapter of Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA). These student organizations are important to me because they help to give structure to my passions.

MY GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UO
Getting to travel to Venice with professors and students to see the architecture Biennale was easily the greatest learning and life experience I’ve had at UO. I was part of the installation design team for the Transpecies Design exhibition, curated by Dean Adrian Parr for the European Cultural Center’s Venice Biennale series of exhibitions.

AFTER GRADUATION
My hopes are to work in a place and with people who support my growth as a designer. If I am as passionate about my work in ten years as I am right now, I will be a happy individual.

YOUR GIFT
This scholarship is important to me because it is helping me to pursue a studio project beyond the scope of the class. I will be using this award to continue development of the project with the hopes of ultimately producing and selling the item.

Thank you! Not only for me, but thank you for supporting the work of students who are passionate about what we do.