BridgePoint
BridgePoint
Digital platform for the integration of international students with the local community
Digital platform for the integration of international students with the local community
Embedded Files
BridgePoint was developed to address the challenges between international student communities and local residents in Spain. Through user interviews and market analysis, our team identified a need for a platform that combines practical resources with opportunities for social connection, reinforced by incentives. We proposed a mobile app that fosters community involvement through activities designed to bridge the gap between students and locals via outreach and collaboration.
BridgePoint was developed to address the challenges between international student communities and local residents in Spain. Through user interviews and market analysis, our team identified a need for a platform that combines practical resources with opportunities for social connection, reinforced by incentives. We proposed a mobile app that fosters community involvement through activities designed to bridge the gap between students and locals via outreach and collaboration.
Problem
International students often struggle with isolation and adjusting to new environments, while local residents may feel that their routines, traditions, and culture are not respected.
Research & Insights
Interviews with 32 international students at IE University (Segovia, Spain) highlighted the need for both practical resources and stronger social connections
Main barriers included language, shared interests, and trust between international students and locals
Literature review showed that universities in Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. face similar challenges with student–community adjustment and acceptance
Personas
👨🦳 Alejandro, 60
👨🦳 Alejandro, 60
Primary needs: Peace, routine, and familiar surroundings
Recently retired with children studying at the University of Segovia
Takes daily walks in the hills for physical and mental well-being
Values structured routine, including grocery shopping at Dia and visiting local coffee shops
Prioritizes calm interactions with friends, family, and community
Appreciates clean, quiet, and orderly public spaces
Frustrations:
Disruption of tranquility from noisy gatherings
Waiting behind international students who don't understand local customs
Encounters with foreigners unwilling to speak Spanish
🧑🎓 Jules Smith, 20
🧑🎓 Jules Smith, 20
Primary needs: Social connection, new experiences, and academic balance
International student studying at IE University in Segovia
Leads a fast-paced lifestyle, balancing academics with an active social life
Seeks meaningful connections while adapting to life abroad
Manages a limited budget while trying to participate in key events
Navigates cultural differences while building new friendship networks
Frustrations:
An overwhelming number of social and academic commitments
Financial constraints limit participation in activities
Cultural and language barriers when integrating with locals
Market Context
Data showed a lack of event-centric and community-involved applications specifically tailored to international students.
Solution Concept
BridgePoint is an app offering students and locals a win-win opportunity to integrate through community-focused volunteering events. Allowing locals to feel seen by the international community, and students to gain immersive experiences while earning volunteer hours, certificates, and discounts for local events and businesses.
Value Proposition
Bridging cultures, one event at a time. The solution to balancing social life, academic achievement, and community awareness.
🏘️
Community Integration
Fosters community relations
Creates accessible gathering opportunities
Enables social connections among local and international residents
Reduces isolation through shared community involvement
🔍
Personalized Experience
A variety of volunteer opportunities are offered
Partnerships with local businesses and organizations
Volunteer incentives
Integration with social platforms
Design Process
User Research → Wireframes → MVP Development → Beta Testing → Iteration
Key Decisions
User Experience
Multi-language platform
Digital and physical certificate options
Customizable incentives
Calendar integration
One-click event sign-up
Local news and resources included
Win-Win Model
Reward system for students: discounts at local venues and shops, plus LinkedIn certificates
Respect for locals: volunteer activities demonstrate appreciation for local culture and the community
Mutual connection: shared activities create opportunities for bonding between students and residents
Final Outcome
BridgePoint App.mov
My Contributions
My Contributions
General and user research; insight extraction
Collaborated on JTBD, market analysis, VP canvas, and product/market testing
Wireframed application and MVP
Managed executive summary
Presented final pitch
Potential Next Steps…
Potential Next Steps…
Launch in Segovia and Madrid, followed by an expansion to other Spanish cities. Eventually, leading to worldwide expansion.
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