A Master’s Thesis by Haley Kim

Index

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Thesis Focus

This thesis explores the intersection of identity, heritage, and belonging for international adoptees_focusing on the challenges of connecting with one’s cultural roots in the absence of accessible and culturally relevant resources. Adoption narratives often center on the journey to a new family and life, but what happens when adoptees seek to understand where they come from? This overlooked phase of navigating identity and heritage can lead to feelings of isolation, emotional complexity, and disconnection. How can design address this gap?

Belonging is an evolving journey. By creating tools and services that bridge cultural and emotional divides, we can empower adoptees to connect with their heritage, turning uncertainty into clarity. Identity is no longer fragmented; it is a story waiting to be uncovered and celebrated. This work is critical as globalization reshapes the adoption landscape, leaving many adoptees with fewer resources to understand their origins. As adoption becomes more prevalent across cultures, we must prioritize solutions that honor the depth and complexity of heritage and belonging.

About Me

Haley Kim design products that blend refined craftsmanship with technology, seamlessly merging tradition with modern innovation.

With a background in Jewelry Design and a Master’s in Products of Design, I bring together materiality, storytelling, and functionality to create meaningful, user-centered solutions at the intersection of art, engineering, and business.

**Résumé | Website | LinkedIn**

Acknowledgements

• There are so many people to thank for supporting this thesis process…

Important Links

Midterm Slide Deck (43 slides)

Midterm Presentation (Single Scroll)

Thesis Blog (updated weekly)

Thesis Instagram (mostly process)

Frameworks / Mindmaps

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