about me

/maɪə/ — yes, pronounced like "Maya"

Nice to meet you! I'm a junior at Northwestern University where I study Cognitive Science, Design, and HCI, weaving these fields together to pursue my different interests. My multidisciplinary, creative life has informed my thinking in countless ways—and in a world that pushes specialization, I find strength in embracing a fusion of perspectives.

Growing up between the flow of dance and the pulse of the internet, I learned to spot patterns, tell stories, and stay endlessly curious about people and their behaviors.

Until 18, I trained in dance at a visual and performing arts high school, which instilled a love for storytelling and a deep sense of discipline. In college, I discovered product design as the perfect blend of my creative and analytical sides; a way to channel my curiosity into crafting solutions that are both practical and spark joy.

I see design as a permanent space to learn—about people, their needs, and the countless ways we interact with the world around us.

when i'm not designing, i'm…

Exploring spaces that spark creativity

Trying to hit every Chicago photobooth

In rehearsal for my next dance show

© 2025 Maija Boelkins

made with love, fueled by endless lattes!

© 2025 Maija Boelkins

made with love, fueled by endless lattes!

© 2025 Maija Boelkins

made with love, fueled by endless lattes!