CHECKOUT is a group show conceived on the idea of a supermarket-library hybrid.

This show features projects from the BFA Graphic Design Exploration & Experimentation and Packaging classes designed by students of the Spring 2025 BFA Graphic Design cohort, specifically focused on experimental book design inspired by a structure of our choice, HEB & HCF laddered packaging design, and luxury spirits design inspired by Stranger & Stranger.

As graphic designers we often struggle with our own involvement in capitalism and consumerism, and where that leaves us morally, ethically and emotionally when we reflect on it. But we are able to find joy in creating design that is meant to be consumed one way or the other, without submitting to the pressures of profit margins and sales alone.

All of these projects are intended for your consumption, but we hope you linger and stay a while, and see these designs for more than the consumerist context they seem to be situated within. All of these products carry their own story within them, woven into every part of the design we have chosen for them. We’re hoping that you will lend your ear to their stories.

CHECKOUT ran from Sept. 22, 2024 through Sept. 26, 2024 at the Marilyn Werby Gallery in CSULB.

Two of my projects were featured: Decadent Cake Mix and HBCL Structure Book.

View on the @csulb_schoolofart Instagram page here and here.

My internship experience with Linc Housing was documented in their impact report: “This has been one of the most fulfilling experiences in my early career. As a first-generation college student who grew up in a low-income family of immigrants that faced financial and housing instability, I am driven to contribute to the community and strive for economic justice. I am happy that I’m doing just that at Linc.”

Since 1984, Linc Housing has built a strong track record of creating communities for thousands of families and seniors throughout California. They’re committed to building and preserving housing that is affordable, environmentally sustainable, and a catalyst for community improvement. Linc works hard to address the homelessness crisis by building supportive housing and addressing the affordable housing needs of our state’s diverse population.

Learn more about Linc Housing here.

View the 2023 Impact Report here.

COLLEGE CORPS 2023–24 ANNUAL REPORT 🏫

My internship experience with Linc Housing in the College Corps program at CSULB was documented in their annual report: “As a Graphic Design Intern at Linc Housing, my tasks included developing graphics, infographics, and miscellaneous visual elements for the in-progress 2023 Impact Report... My self-confidence has expanded significantly, as well as my interpersonal and leadership skills. I want to continue to work primarily for non-profit organizations and design studios that are community- centered, people-focused, and driven to elevate and empower groups facing systemic disadvantages through public interest initiatives and social projects.”

College Corps @ the Beach is a part of the larger statewide initiative, #CaliforniansForAll College Corps. #CaliforniansForAll College Corps will help create debt-free pathways to college while engaging students across the state in solving problems in their communities. At CSULB, our College Corps @ the Beach program will work with campus and community partners to place students in two-semester paid internships. Interns’ placements will focus on key issues related to climate action and environmental justice, food insecurity, and K-12 education with an emphasis on climate literacy. The goal is to create debt-free pathways to college while engaging students in solving problems in their communities.

Learn more about College Corps @ the Beach here.

View the 2023–24 Annual Report here.

KIMMY DUONG FOUNDATION WEBSITE 🇻🇳

I was one of the Gold Prize recipients for the 2024–25 Kimmy Duong Foundation Scholarship.

The Kimmy Duong Foundation provides educational and humanitarian support for Vietnamese and American communities. Education brings many benefits including raising incomes, improving health, and fostering peace. The Kimmy Duong Foundation has supported multiple education programs to promote these benefits.

Learn more about the Kimmy Duong Foundation here.