Her Story
About Alice
Alice Lan is an early career product designer exploring AI, growth marketing, and content strategy within the startup ecosystem. A rising junior at UC San Diego, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science with a focus on Design and Interaction, alongside a minor in Marketing. Her academic path in Human-Computer Interaction feeds directly into her professional interests in Product Design and Consumer Behavior, giving her a well-rounded perspective that bridges research, design, and business strategy. Beyond the classroom, Lan is deeply engaged in community building and leadership. She currently serves as Co-President of World Studios at UC San Diego, formerly known as Design for America, where she guides pro bono design initiatives for nonprofit organizations centered on sustainability and social justice. She also holds roles as a Campus Leader for Figma and Notion, where she helps bring the platform's presence to life through events and student engagement, as well as a founding member of The Collective, a nationwide network connecting ambitious young leaders in the startup world. Before pursuing design and content, Lan was a student journalist and competed as a Division 1 fencer, earning a spot at the NCAA National Intercollegiate Fencnig Championships during her freshman season. That chapter ultimately ended, giving her the confidence to step back and pursue new passions, from organizing events that spotlight female founders to joining hackathons that raise support for animal shelters. Driven by a desire to build relationships, learn from others, and create meaningful impact, Lan continues to explore the evolving intersection of design, technology, and community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alice
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my background as a Division 1 fencer. It taught me discipline and the importance of showing up. Stepping away from that path gave me the freedom to explore other interests through student organizations and independent side projects, which ultimately shaped the direction I am on today in design and content.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A mentor once told me that I have my entire life ahead of me to build a career, so in this stage of life, I have so mcuh time to explore my passions and pursue side quests rather than feeling like I have to be following a certain path. That mindset has taught me that curiousity and being open to new things ultimately carries you further than worrying about the future.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I'd tell them to be their own biggest supporter and to believe in themselves. And also to stop waiting around for things to happen. You build up that belief and confidence in yourself by doing your thing, committing to promises you make to yourself, and staying open to new people and opportunities before you feel like you're ready.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The rapid pace at which AI is transforming the tech industry is something that's causing a lot of anxiety, and it can feel overwhelming at times. That said, as students we have the time and space to explore these tools and experiment freely, which I see as an advantage. At the end of the day technology is a tool, and there's plenty of room for everyone to grow alongside the toolstack we use.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Building genuine relationships is at the core of what I value, both professionally and personally. I care deeply about learning from the people I meet and gaining new perspectives, and I hope people people feel that same energy through the work that I do.
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