Dr. Ilka Rodriguez-Calero is a social impact-driven engineer, design researcher, facilitator, and U-M alumna (Design Science MS ’19; Ph.D. ’22). She hosted a Portfolio Design Workshop focused on helping students craft and present their professional narratives through strategic portfolios.
The session began with interactive exercises and reflection tools to help students explore their personal and professional identities. Using these methods for self-discovery, participants were encouraged to think critically about how their experiences, skills, and values align with their career goals.
Building on this foundation, Ilka guided students through approaches to organizing their work and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of aligning portfolios with specific goals and target audiences. Students had the opportunity to sketch out key elements of a strategic and purpose-driven portfolio, leaving the workshop with actionable insights and a clearer direction for showcasing their work effectively.