Prof. Nien Siao is the Dean at Ecole Intuit Lab. As an alumnus of NID, she brings a rich experience of 31 years in Design Academics and Design Practice. She has been the founder Director of Pearl Academy Noida, Dean at School of Design, IILM University, and Arch Academy of Design & Business. Her experience as an educator, mentor, business and strategy developer in Design education and management has contributed to design academics. She has around 25 years of teaching experience. She has also published various research papers in national and international journals. 

École Intuit Lab

What motivated you to choose a path in higher education administration, and what attracted you to your current position as a principal?

After almost three decades in the education field, my strong interest and passion for the domain became evident. Throughout my career, I proactively initiated various educational practices and improvements in every institution I worked in. Recognizing the crucial role efficient administration plays in enhancing educational quality, I was drawn to higher education administration. My dedication and contributions did not go unnoticed, leading to opportunities as a dean and as the head of various departments. What motivated me was not only delivering results for the present but also envisioning and working towards the future of education. I feel fortunate to have been given these opportunities to make a difference. These experiences eventually led me to my current position as a principal, where I can continue my commitment to advancing education and its impact on the future. 

What's your vision for the college?

My vision for the college revolves around continuous growth, adaptability, and preparation for the future. As we step into a rapidly changing technological era, I envision the college as a dynamic institution that remains abreast of emerging technologies and embraces innovation. We must recognize that the technology we currently have is just the beginning, and its potential impact on our lives is yet to be fully understood. Therefore, it is imperative that we, including students, faculty, and the entire educational community, evolve alongside these advancements. Moreover, I believe that the world is becoming increasingly diverse in its perspectives and ways of thinking. To thrive in this open world of the future, we must equip ourselves with the ability to embrace kindness, empathy, and unity. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping a more harmonious and interconnected society. Thus, our focus should be on creating an inclusive and compassionate environment that fosters comfort and happiness for all. In recent times, we have witnessed division and discord, making it even more essential for education to serve as the unifying force. Ensuring equitable distribution of resources and utilizing technology for the betterment of humanity will be at the core of our approach. As the pace of technological change accelerates, it calls for a new mindset centered on humanity, ethics, and the greater good. To achieve this vision, the college must incorporate a curriculum that not only imparts subject expertise but also instills essential life lessons. By exposing students to various aspects of life and encouraging critical thinking, we will nurture future leaders who can navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving world. In essence, my vision for the college is to create a progressive and compassionate educational institution that empowers students to lead with a deep sense of responsibility towards humanity, leveraging technology for the collective benefit and growth of society.

How do you tend to establish a relation with the students being the principal of the university? How do you make yourself available to them?

As the dean of the college, my approach to establishing a relationship with the students involves being a guiding and facilitating presence. I believe in providing them with exposure, learning opportunities, and support throughout their journey here. Additionally, I consider it crucial to assist the teaching and other staff in developing a shared vision for the institution and the students. To make myself available to students, I adopt a multi-faceted approach. While I may not physically connect with every individual student, I ensure that I dedicate 4-6 hours of teaching in a semester, which allows me to engage with specific groups of students directly. However, beyond the classroom setting, I participate in various institute activities that are open to all students, staff, and guests. These events serve as valuable occasions for me to interact with them, listen to their perspectives, ask questions, and encourage them to strive for more achievements. Moreover, during significant occasions such as final juries or exhibitions, I make myself readily available to engage in discussions with them about their pursuits. I strongly believe that these interactions are pivotal for fostering a sense of community and sharing knowledge on professional matters. Furthermore, I actively participate in fun activities, celebrations, and get-togethers organized within the university. By being part of these events, I aim to create an approachable image and demonstrate that I am one with the students in these joyous moments. It is essential for me to share my experiences as a lifelong learner, a professional, and an expert in design fields. I also enjoy engaging in philosophical discussions about life and humanity. I find that these conversations are most impactful when we are together in a different environment rather than having them in the form of classroom lectures. Overall, my goal is to build a meaningful and genuine relationship with the students, one that goes beyond just being an administrative figure. I strive to be approachable, supportive, and willing to connect with them on both academic and personal levels, making their journey at the university enriching and fulfilling.

What advice would you offer to the present-day youth and aspiring students?

I believe the current generation, Gen-Z, is incredibly smart and adept at handling technology. They possess unique experiences that previous generations never had. My advice to these youngsters is to keep their minds and hearts open when making decisions. Don't worry too much if you end up in a course or profession that may not align with your ultimate goals. See it as a valuable addition to your life experiences. Instead of fixating on material gains, think of your life as a bank that collects experiences. Embrace various opportunities, whether technical or creative, as each contributes to your growth. A successful professional integrates diverse skills to benefit society, industries, and the world. Strive to be a wiser, happier, and more successful individual rather than solely chasing professional success. I wish you all the best and I hope to meet many of you in the future.

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What specific measures or programs has your institution implemented to address the increasing mental health issues and stress among today’s youth?

Addressing mental health issues and stress among today's youth has become more challenging, particularly with the impact of COVID-19 in the last three years. The pandemic resulted in extended periods of isolation and limited social interactions, significantly affecting students' mental well-being. Reintegrating into society after such experiences can be daunting, as they now have to navigate unfamiliar situations and face strangers along with friends and relatives. To support our students at École Intuit Lab Delhi, we have collaborated with "Your Dost" to provide assistance and work through any issues they may encounter. This type of support is essential for students' long-term well-being, and I believe it should be a common practice in higher education institutions. Seeking support and therapy for mental health is considered normal, and I encourage all youngsters to reach out to their colleges and authorities if they need such assistance.

What are your primary responsibilities as a principal and how do you balance them with other aspects of your job? 

As the dean of the college, my primary responsibility is to create an environment that fosters students' development as learners and professionals. I strive to provide ample opportunities for them to gain practical experience and exposure in their chosen fields. Offering guidance and support, I help students build confidence in their skills and encourage them to explore new areas of interest. Many students come to us at a crucial stage in their lives, seeking direction and guidance as they embark on their academic and professional journey. As the dean, it is my duty to assist them in charting their individual paths. Working closely with faculty and staff, we ensure that students are well-prepared to face the challenges of digital design, game design, and other industries. Aligning their personalities with the demands of these fields is equally important as supporting their professional growth. Balancing these responsibilities with other aspects of my job involves effective coordination with the faculty and staff. Together, we strive to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that equips students with the skills and mindset needed for success in their chosen careers.

What differentiates your college from other institutions in terms of its unique attributes and offerings?

Our college stands out from other institutions due to its unique attributes and offerings. One significant differentiator is that all our programs are centered on the digital domain. We firmly believe in expanding design into new areas, such as game design, which goes beyond entertainment. For example, I believe game theory, as applied in education and various other fields, it will hold relevance for professionals across industries, including businesses, individual training, medical sciences, mining, scientific advancements, and more. Additionally, what sets us apart is our exceptional faculty comprising industry professionals. Their expertise brings valuable industry exposure, hands-on understanding, and networking opportunities to our students. This aspect further enhances the learning experience and equips our graduates with practical skills and knowledge that are in demand in the professional world.

In your experience, what benefits can students gain from studying here in your institute?

Studying at our institute offers students the invaluable opportunity to hone their creative identity or individuality. We encourage them to explore their unique artistic expressions and nurture their creative potential. This aspect sets them apart in the competitive job market and empowers them to make meaningful contributions to the creative industry. In addition to this, our faculty consists of industry professionals, both from international backgrounds and India, who impart expertise, insights, and networking opportunities within the industry to our students. Through their guidance, we ensure students receive a comprehensive and hands-on education. Our state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge curriculum prepare students with future-ready skills in design and the creative industry. The constantly evolving creative sector demands up-to-date knowledge, and our curriculum is designed to meet those requirements. Moreover, the connections formed at our institute extend beyond graduation. Students build lifelong networks of like-minded individuals, faculty, and industry professionals, opening doors to potential collaborations and career opportunities. At École Intuit Lab, we prepare our students for successful and fulfilling careers in the creative world.

How does the curriculum of your college ensure the best practices of industry?

Our course curriculum is designed with a strong focus on practicality and hands-on-learning, ensuring students are well-prepared with the best industry practices. We take pride in our state-of-the-art infrastructure and up-to-date curriculum, which provide students with a cutting-edge learning environment. A key factor that sets our curriculum apart is the involvement of industry professionals, both from international and Indian backgrounds, as faculty members. Their expertise and real-world experience bring invaluable insights and exposure to the industry, giving our students a well-rounded understanding of the global creative landscape. Additionally, we believe in the significance of international exposure and the exchange of ideas. Our college offers international exchange programs and workshops that allow students to collaborate with peers from different countries, broadening their perspectives and enriching their learning experience. As we nurture students' creative identity, we also recognize the importance of practical experience. To bridge the gap between theory and application, our curriculum incorporates ample internship opportunities. By blending theory with real-world experiences, we equip our students with the best industry practices, setting them on a path to success in the dynamic and evolving creative industry.