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Life Design

Life Design is a creative, hands-on framework that helps you navigate college with intention and imagine multiple possibilities for your life after graduation. Rooted in design thinking, it encourages you to explore, experiment, and build your path through curiosity, reflection, and action. Life Design courses, workshops and in-class modules are available throughout your time as a student at the College of Fine Arts.

What will I learn to do?

  • Be Curious:
    Discover what energizes you. Clarify your values, interests, priorities and explore experiences that align with them.
  • Visualize Possibilities:
    Expand your thinking through design mindsets and tools. Envision different paths and map out opportunities while growing more confident in your ability to navigate ambiguity.
  • Try Things Out:
    Try small, low‑stakes experiments – like an internship, side project or conversation with someone about their career journey – to see what resonates with you.
  • Get Connected:
    Build authentic connections and community. Collaborate through sharing ideas, learning from peers, and expanding your supportive network.
  • Tell Your Story:
    Learn to communicate your experiences, strengths, and aspirations in meaningful and compelling ways.

How can I engage with Life Design? 

Courses

  • FA 101F Steer Your Future in the Arts (1 hr, Fall & Spring)
  • FA 306 Career Development in the Arts (3 hrs, Spring only)

Other Options

  • Modules: crafted in collaboration with faculty and integrated into their class or studio curriculum.
  • Workshops: 1 hr hands-on experiences presented by COFA Career Services, open to all students across the university.
  • Career Coaching: Stay tuned, Life Design appointments coming soon!

Why does this matter?

As artists, designers, performers, and creators, our paths are rarely linear. Life Design offers practical strategies and insights that help you stay adaptable, open to new possibilities, and resilient — now and throughout your life.

Please reach out to cofacareerservices@austin.utexas.com if you have any questions or would like more information.