Orb: Illuminate Your Path to Mindfulness
For my app design, I decided to combine two of my initial ideas into one concept: a study and mindfulness app designed specifically for college students. The goal of the app is to help students stay organized, track their academic progress, and build healthier study habits while also encouraging them to take intentional breaks and manage the stress that can come with schoolwork. For my research, I wanted to explore both the mental health challenges college students face academically and their study habits and time-management preferences. Research shows that more than 70% of college students experience psychological stress related to academics. Students also spend a significant amount of time studying and completing assignments, with many dedicating approximately 6–10 hours to academic work.
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I also looked at how students prefer to study and manage their time. Approximately 84% of students prefer studying independently rather than in groups. Additionally, 73.1% of female students reported using a planner or calendar to manage their time, while 55.8% of male students reported not using one.
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These findings helped shape my approach to the app. Rather than focusing solely on productivity, I wanted the design to recognize the importance of balance, mental well-being, and sustainable study habits. The app would combine productivity tools with mindfulness features to create a study experience that helps students make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
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The interviews revealed a common pattern: students use apps to stay organized, focused, and maintain healthy break habits. Many rely on calendars to manage their schedules, while others take frequent breaks throughout their study sessions. Based on these insights, the main priorities for my app became a calendar and study timer, paired with mindfulness-focused break reminders.
