Impact of the Target HBCU Design Challenge Winners on the Design Industry?

Can anyone share insights on how winning the Target HBCU Design Challenge has impacted the careers of past winners? I'm thinking of majoring in design at an HBCU and wondering how beneficial this competition can be.

Absolutely, I'd love to share what I've observed. My son, while not a winner himself, has closely followed the careers of several past winners of the Target HBCU Design Challenge. What he's noticed is that winners tend to gain substantial visibility in the design industry, which can be quite pivotal for their careers. One clear advantage is the networking potential—winners get to connect with industry professionals, which can lead to internships and job opportunities. Also, having such a prestigious award on their resume can make them stand out in job applications; it's a mark of excellence and creativity that employers in the design field look for.

Moreover, the experience of competing at such a high level can really refine their design skills, which is invaluable in itself. But perhaps most importantly, it provides a boost in confidence—winners feel validated in their design capabilities, which fuels their passion and dedication even further. So, if you have the opportunity to participate and are passionate about design, I'd say go for it! It could be a great stepping stone and a wonderful experience to add to your academic and professional journey.