student working in the Pod

First-Year Student Design Teams Solve Real-World Problems

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Through Duke University’s First-Year Design (FYD) program, students gain early experience as they work in multi-disciplinary teams to design and build prototype solutions to solve real-world, client-based problems.

Fat Tubes

A solution for sewer lines

Each day, millions of Americans pour fats, oils, and grease down their sinks. This happens because people are unaware, forgetful, or don’t worry about their actions.

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Team dispenses liquid for zero-waste store

For team members Rodrigo Guerreiro, James Koconis, and Kaitlyn Roegner figuring out how to dispense liquids for a zero-waste store was just a fraction of what they learned during their first spring semester.

group shot of students

Residential Bridge in West Virginia

A cost-effective, residential bridge that can withstand major weather events

Recent News

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Spring 2024 CLAMP

First-Year Design recognizes high performing student-staff with second annual CLAMP award

For the second year, the First-Year Design leadership team selected recipients of the “CLAMP” (Committed Leaders Assisting and Mentoring Peers) Award 

| Pratt Instagram

Pratt Instagram Recaps the Design Expo

From a lifting sytem for homeless shelter operations to a pitcher plant that will be used in a drama production of "Little Shop of Horrors", the Pratt Design Expo featured imaginative solutions to real-world needs in the community.    

Inaugural First-Year Design Student Awards Luncheon

The student leaders of the First-Year Design (FYD) program are essential to the EGR 101 student experience. Teaching Assistants (TAs); Writing Consultants (WCs); and LabRATS (technical lab support) are selected from a competitive interview process.

Inspiring Engineers

Duke Engineering offers students a progressive immersion in engineering design, from the first-year overview to capstone design projects in their chosen disciplines.