Francine Tongol

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Francine Tongol is a renaissance-minded senior pursuing a BFA in Communications Design with a minor in Information Management & Technology. She was born in the Philippines and raised on Long Island, New York. With an unwavering belief in the enchantment of life, she shamelessly views the world through rose-tinted glasses, maintaining a childlike wonder that she never outgrew. Her design philosophy is akin to being a chameleon, adapting seamlessly to the diverse styles and voices of each project. In her eyes, brands are not just entities; they possess a personality and soul, each a visual being with its own narrative. She passionately believes in the power of connecting with brands on a deeper level—interacting, experiencing, and living alongside them. She believes in making room for humanity in her work. Her mission extends beyond aesthetics; she envisions designs that evoke emotions, brighten someone’s day, or instill a profound impact. In her hands, design becomes a conduit for forging meaningful connections, a testament to her commitment to infusing life into every project she undertakes.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DESIGN SCHOOL HAS TAUGHT YOU THAT YOU DID NOT EXPECT?

Designing with a twist on the familiar. It’s this technique that I think most people including myself didn’t realize we consumed and processed on a subconscious level. It’s what makes some of the best works memorable, and it fascinates me to think about how similar the human experience must be for it to work so well with the masses.

WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR FIELD? EITHER TODAY OR HISTORICALLY?

Jessica Walsh

WHAT ARE YOU READING, LISTENING TO, WATCHING?

Watching Baz Luhrmann films. Reading Lightlark. Listening to SZA.