In an era where education costs are soaring, access to affordable study materials has become crucial for students pursuing higher education. StuFree recognized this pressing need and embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way students access textbooks through the development of an online marketplace tailored specifically for higher education.
Problem
There was no clear and organized platform where textbooks were presented in a structured and accessible way. As a result, students struggled to quickly and easily find the right book.
There was a lack of a user-friendly, centralized space where supply and demand for second-hand textbooks could efficiently meet
Solution
To address this issue, I created an online marketplace for buying and selling used textbooks, designed to make it easy for students to find the right books by organizing information in a clear and intuitive way.
In addition, I developed a bold and energetic brand identity that gave the platform a unique personality. StuFree became more than just a place to trade books, it became a supportive community where students feel understood and can find helpful tips and guidance for their studies.
A branding with a gentle touch
and a voice of understanding
In crafting StuFree’s branding, I focused on creating a warm, supportive environment that speaks to students dealing with financial pressure and academic stress.
Through a soft, calming color palette and a tone of voice tailored to Gen Z, I built a brand that feels empathetic, trustworthy, and community driven, making StuFree more than just a marketplace, but a reliable ally in student life.
Making education accessible
through thoughtful user centric design
When conceptualizing StuFree, my goal was to transform the way students access affordable study materials by creating a dedicated online marketplace for higher education.
I prioritized the platform’s core function, searching for books, by placing it front and center on the homepage, making it immediately visible and accessible. This allows students to start their search effortlessly from the moment they land on the site. Advanced search and filtering tools further empower them to quickly find exactly what they need.
Bringing StuFree to life
through bold design
After developing the wireframes and defining the information architecture, I transitioned into the visual design phase by integrating StuFree’s bold branding directly into the wireframes. This step was essential to ensure that the brand's personality, energetic, youthful, and supportive, was reflected not only in the visuals but also in the user experience.
I translated the brand’s identity through a strong use of color, typography, and layout choices, bringing the interface to life while maintaining clarity and usability. This seamless integration of branding into the design elevated the platform beyond functionality, creating a visually engaging and emotionally resonant experience for students.
