Students Launch “In Flux,” an Interactive Digital Magazine

PhotoDynamic content from "In Flux," showcasing interactive storytelling through bold design, animation, and illustration.
Columbia College Chicago students from six majors collaborated to create “In Flux,” an innovative interactive magazine that addresses real-world issues through bold storytelling and cutting-edge design.

A group of Columbia College Chicago students have redefined storytelling with the debut of “In Flux,” an interactive digital magazine designed, written, and developed entirely by students from six disciplines, including Journalism, Photography, UX/UI Design, Illustration, Graphic Design, and Programming. 

Created in just 15 weeks, the publication reflects Columbia's commitment to hands-on, interdisciplinary learning and showcases how young people are navigating and reshaping today's world. 

“I was one of three UX Designers and Developers on the In Flux team,” says Gianna Dimperio, a UX designer and programming major. “Our role involved bridging the gap between design and functionality, making sure the writers' and designers' visions came to life in a cohesive, user-friendly way. The diversity of thought within our team created a melting pot of creativity during every meeting, driving the project forward in ways I couldn’t have achieved alone.”  

Under the guidance of faculty mentors Jo-Nell Sieren, Assistant Professor of Instruction in UX/UI, and Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin, Professor of Journalism, 25 students collaborated to produce every visual and written element of the publication. The project also included building a custom website to deliver the publication's innovative content for both desktop and mobile users.  

"It’s an important time at Columbia to provide opportunities for students to work with other creative disciplines outside of the silo of a program,” says Sieren. “Students need experiences and community reflecting the industries they will enter after graduation.” 

The inaugural issue explores themes of social, environmental, and economic challenges while celebrating resilience and progress. Noteworthy articles include: 

  • "Bed Rotting" – A deep dive into how some young people are going overboard on self-care. 
  • "Women Left Behind" – An exploration of systemic inequalities in medicine and their impacts on women, told with an interactive illustration. 

Readers will experience these stories through dynamic, interactive designs, video, historically inspired illustrations, and animations that merge memes with serious narratives. Every element of the publication embodies Columbia's ethos of creating bold, experimental work that resonates with contemporary audiences. 

“This project reflects the mission of Columbia — empowering students to tackle real-world issues with creativity and innovation," says Bloyd-Peshkin.  

Explore the full issue at www.colum.edu/influx and follow the conversation on Instagram: @colum_influx. 

Interested in being part of a future “In Flux” team? Reach out to jsieren@colum.edu and  speshkin@colum.edu 

 

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