Maryam

Hello, I’m Maryam Hashim, a 23-year-old from the sunny and vibrant Doha, Qatar. Growing up here, I’ve developed a love affair with the warmth of the sun, the endless blue of the sea, and the majestic beauty of the desert. These landscapes are my sanctuary, my escape, and oddly enough, the reason I’m a bit anxious about hiking and Mountains. It’s a bit of a quirky mix, I know.

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Art has been my companion since I could remember. My childhood was a blur of colors and creativity, painting and crafting my way through the days. This early passion naturally evolved into a deep love for design. To me, design is art in its most practical form, blending creativity with utility in a way that enriches everyday life.

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At 18, fresh out of high school, I made a leap that would change my life forever—I moved to Korea. I thought I was ready, armed with confidence and a sprinkle of naivety, only to realize that adapting to a new country was not easy. The initial loneliness and struggle with language barriers tested me in ways I hadn't imagined. Despite the tough start, I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world. Korea has taught me resilience, independence, and the true meaning of strength. It's been 5 years of growth, challenges, and invaluable lessons.

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My interests are as varied as they come. I find peace in the quiet halls of museums, joy in the companionship of my dog Kiwi, and an indescribable energy in the rhythms of rock music and soulful tunes from the 60s. Korean indie rock bands like Hyukoh and SeSoNeon soundtrack my life, while legends like Aretha Franklin and Sam Cooke feed my soul. Thrifting is another passion, a treasure hunt that’s both eco-friendly and a statement against the fast fashion industry. Photography, a newfound love since COVID-19, has taught me to appreciate the beauty in the mundane, capturing the small, yet profound, moments of life.

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What excites me most about the course is the opportunity to deepen my understanding of design beyond its aesthetic appeal. While the visual aspect of design has always captivated me, I’m eager to explore its functional and practical side. I want to challenge myself to see design as a problem-solving tool, an integral part of our daily lives that combines form with function in seamless harmony. This course represents a chance to broaden my perspective, appreciating design not just as a form of art but as a means to enhance usability and improve experiences.

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Looking towards the future, my dreams are as vivid and varied as the canvases I used to paint on as a child. One of my biggest aspirations is to own a design studio, a creative hub where imagination knows no bounds, and where fun, quirky, and innovative projects come to life. This dream extends to opening my own café by the beach, creating a space where people can gather, relax, and be inspired by the beauty of their surroundings. Moreover, I envision owning an exhibition space dedicated to showcasing emerging artists, providing them with a platform to share their work and stories with the world. I also want to create a magic pill that would make dogs live forever.