Joseph Neus
Class of 2023-2024
University of Notre Dame
Visual Communication Design
Why did you choose ESTEEM?
I chose ESTEEM because I felt that I had a solid foundation in design thinking, combined with technical UX (and some coding) skills and wanted to deepen my understanding of business. I enjoy looking for unique solutions to complex problems and I knew ESTEEM would help me strengthen my product development skills as well as learn how to bring ideas to market in a practical sense.
What is your Capstone Project and why are you excited about it?
Kylemore Abbey is a social enterprise deeply rooted in tradition and heritage, and it is one of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions. The estate’s buildings are over 150 years old and have been home to the Benedictine Nuns for over 100 years. For this capstone project the student will be working closely with the Kylemore Trust on growing the online retail element of their business with a focus on their own brand and promoting locally produced goods. The student will interview existing customers to provide Kylemore with insights into the current user experience of their online shop. The benefits of this online retail e-commerce growth will ultimately help Kylemore Abbey re-invest the proceeds into their dual charitable mission of both supporting the Monastic Community in Kylemore as well as preserving and sharing the heritage of the estate with the public. Historically, Kylemore Abbey had aspired to ‘Bring the World to Kylemore’. Now, as part of this expansion, Kylemore wants to ‘Bring Kylemore to the World’.
What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?
After ESTEEM, I aspire to work internationally or nationally as a UX designer and/or product designer, as I’m passionate about human-centered design.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not working I love playing guitar, going to the gym, and traveling.
My minor is in Computing & Digital Technologies.