Harley - 4th Year Communication Student
Meet Harley Vu, a Communication major set to graduate in 2025. Passionate about music, Harley's research project explored how AI can transform the music industry. By connecting with experts and pushing creative boundaries, Harley uncovered the exciting potential of AI in music.
AI-Powered Music Journey: Research and Discovery
Graduation Research/Internship Adventure
AI will be music content’s best friend – that’s my research project. Music has always been my passion; it boosts creativity and heals my soul.
Challenges and Triumphs
Finding the right materials and conducting field research was challenging, but I used LinkedIn to connect with experts and took the initiative to reach out to almost everyone who could help. Taking the first step and showing persistence opened many door
Taking the first step and showing persistence opened many doors.
Skills, Wins, and Advice for Future Adventurers
Highlights and Wins
This project made me realize that I want to work in the music and entertainment industry—it keeps me young, vibrant, creative, and lovable. One of the highlights was discovering that AI is not scary. When used within set boundaries, it can make dreams come true, which is an empowering realization.
New Skills and Superpowers
During the project, I honed my interviewing, communication, and time management skills, becoming more flexible when interacting with different people. These skills will help me thrive in any workplace by showing the value of persistence, hard work, and the importance of seeking feedback.
Advice for Future Adventurers
To succeed, it’s important to stay mindful, ask a lot of questions, and set your deadlines while keeping tasks fun. For my Branding portfolio, I chose Hinge because I loved its minimalistic aesthetic and values. The brand sparked enough interest in my teachers, allowing me to be more creative in my storytelling. My project felt meaningful and well-supported because I wasn’t afraid to ask questions and seek guidance.
Final Reflections
Though it was an individual project, the support from my network—teachers, coworkers, and friends—was crucial to my success. This experience sharpened my skills, made me more mature, and prepared me for the professional world.
