I’m working on a new version of my portfolio here!
In the meantime, you can check out my case studies below.

Hi there, I’m Phyllis .
Studying Information Systems and Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon University. Fusing creativity with strategy. Crafting effortless, enjoyable experiences. Join meas I dive in.

Work

Design for America

Improving theresearch spaceat CMU

TL;DR

Term project for Fund. of Programming and Computer Science

House Bayou

Client project under re:Bloom digital agency

Pamela’s Diner

Web development project for Information Systems Milieux

Design Projects

Article layoutsfor clubs & classes

About

My life in Pittsburgh, PA

Me standing on the streets of Pittsburgh

Me sitting with my friends at a brunch diner

Me taking a photo in the mirror with my friends

Me with two friends in front of a colorful mural

A fancy cupcake with other people in the background

Me holding aloft a bag of apples in an apple orchard

Me taking a selfie in an art installation

A cat dozing inside a plant-filled storefront

Look closer — there's a cat :)

How I got here

Born in Tallahassee, Florida, and raised in Dayton, Ohio, I grew up reading and writing with my head in the clouds. But while there was much magic to be found in books, I quickly became engaged with the magic in the world around me. As a layout designer for my school’s magazine, I learned how the confluence of typography, color, and structure could breathe life to an idea. As a student journalist, I learned how to amplify others' voices through my writing, while also elevating my own.

My foray into technology started with good ol’ AP Computer Science Principles. Being a writer and a designer opened up many pathways for me to make a difference; in this course, I caught a glimpse of sprawling new pathways — doors opening into places where technology, design, and advocacy intersected. This led me to my major, Information Systems, which represents the kind of human-centric, forward-thinking work I’ve always wanted to pursue.

What I’m up to now

I’m the lead layout designer and co-president of Big Straw Magazine, as well as a member of UXA and Design for America. Currently, I'm busy with IBM Accelerate and an exciting user research project at CMU dealing with AI — and, of course, slogging through my never-ending reading and watch list.

Speaking of books, Brandon Sanderson is one of my favorite authors! As for TV, I’ve been watching Succession and Yellowjackets.

Some favorite things

Woodwick candles; boba and chai tea; visiting cat cafes; fluffy blankets; every pasta imaginable; spicy salmon rolls; cute brunch places; sunsets after storms; turning off the alarm; antics with friends; Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller.