How do you see yourself and your work? How do your perceptions shape your choices, creativity, and sense of agency? A course of study for students preparing to launch out of Stanford. This course is an exploration of how to lead a more intentional, creative, and committed life - one that aligns with your values, aspirations, and actions. Each week, we read and discuss a book that challenges our understanding of work, meaning, perception, and personal agency. Through structured conversations, students connect ideas across disciplines (ranging from anthropology, to fine art, to technology), exploring the nature of creativity, purpose, and self-perception. The course is experiential: Classes have activities designed to drive discussion and put concepts into action to be evaluated, students also take on two projects - one focused on removing a challenge or constraint in their life, and another open-ended project tackling something entirely new (past projects have included writing a book, starting a business, learning a skill, or making a bold change). Take this course if you are interested in inspecting and rethinking how you approach your life and work - so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Previously known as The Designer in Society, this class was conceived and taught by Bernie Roth for DESIGN 40 years. The current teaching team instructed with him for the past 6 years.
3 units · Satisfactory/No Credit
How do you see yourself and your work? How do your perceptions shape your choices, creativity, and sense of agency? A course of study for students preparing to launch out of Stanford. This course is an exploration of how to lead a more intentional, creative, and committed life - one that aligns with your values, aspirations, and actions. Each week, we read and discuss a book that challenges our understanding of work, meaning, perception, and personal agency. Through structured conversations, students connect ideas across disciplines (ranging from anthropology, to fine art, to technology), exploring the nature of creativity, purpose, and self-perception. The course is experiential: Classes have activities designed to drive discussion and put concepts into action to be evaluated, students also take on two projects - one focused on removing a challenge or constraint in their life, and another open-ended project tackling something entirely new (past projects have included writing a book, starting a business, learning a skill, or making a bold change). Take this course if you are interested in inspecting and rethinking how you approach your life and work - so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Previously known as The Designer in Society, this class was conceived and taught by Bernie Roth for 40 years. The current teaching team instructed with him for the past 6 years.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.