design portfolio
by Karen Mendoza
Karen Mendoza
multimedia artist and researcher for environmental health, education and justice .
Karen is an undergraduate senior in the Cornell University College of Human Ecology studying Human-Centered Design. Karen has worked in evidence-based design projects for environmental science, social justice and health initiatives. She grounds her work in partnerships with community-driven organizations and focuses on intercultural collaborations.
Education
2021-2025
Bachelors of Science
Design & Environmental Analysis
Cornell University
Activities and societies:
Cornell University Sustainable Design (Smithsonian Contracts)
Cornell University Wind Symphony (Executive Board: Design Chair)
Human Ecology Ambassadors
Co-operational Living House Manager
2022-23
2021-24
2022-25
2022-25
Experience
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Visitor Experience Assistant
June 2024 - present
Ithaca, NY
Conduct and lead research study with behavioral observations, surveys and interviews to evaluate visitor experience of exhibition design.
Analyze and interpret data to inform design guidelines for programs offered to public.
K'allamp
Regenerative Andean Agroforestry Intern
Summer 2023
Cotacachi, Ecuador
Begin development of a demonstration farm on ancestral lands as a space for indigenous knowledge-based solutions to restore ecological symbiosis in agriculture and living spaces.
Suggest human-centered design solutions for living spaces.
Cornell College of Human Ecology
CAD User Experience Technician
October 2022 - May 2023
Ithaca, NY
Collect student user experience feedback for Apps on Demand; Navigate and record software solutions based on user experience data.
Pilot-test design software on cloud-based platforms; report outcomes to technician team.
Cornell Housing &
Residential Life
Program Assistant
Summer 2022
Ithaca, NY
Foster community among house residents.
Attend meetings and trainings to learn about house maintenance, procedures and emergency responses.
Practice conflict resolution when needed.