Designing AI with Purpose: My MIT Certification & Capstone on MemoryMate
Quick Take: Just completed MIT's AI certification and built MemoryMate for seniors. Here's what I learned about creating AI that works with humans, not just for them.
AI Certification from MIT
I'm excited to share that I've completed the Designing and Building AI Products and Services program through MIT xPRO. This experience has been transformative, offering a deep exploration into creating AI solutions that are not only technically robust but also ethically sound and user-centric.
This wasn't just another course—it was an intensive dive into the intricacies of developing AI products that genuinely address human needs. We delved into areas such as opportunity identification, AI/ML model selection, system architecture, human-AI interaction, and the paramount importance of trust and transparency in design.
As someone with a background in leading design teams to successful product launches, this program provided me with new frameworks and tools to integrate AI fluency into the design process. I'm particularly inspired by the potential for designers to shape AI technologies that amplify human capabilities, emphasizing clarity, control, and collaboration between users and intelligent systems.
Capstone Project: MemoryMate
For my capstone project, I developed MemoryMate, an AI-powered mobile companion designed to support seniors experiencing early cognitive decline. The inspiration for this project was deeply personal—my father’s struggle with Alzheimer’s showed me firsthand how memory loss can erode not only daily function, but also dignity, confidence, and connection.
MemoryMate was born from a desire to build something that could help others facing similar challenges—something that’s accessible, emotionally intelligent, and human-centered.
The app combines personalized memory support, emotional engagement, and cognitive exercises—all through a voice-first mobile interface that adapts to each user’s lifestyle and needs. It’s designed for those who may live alone, far from caregivers, or who simply want a discreet and friendly tool to stay mentally active and socially connected.
Key features include:
Natural voice-based reminders for names, appointments, and daily routines
Conversational memory games to strengthen recall and engagement
Photo-based memory cues using optional facial recognition
Customizable AI voices to create comfort and emotional resonance
Mood journaling and emotional check-ins to support mental health
MemoryMate restores a sense of agency for older adults while offering peace of mind to families—especially those with limited access to memory care resources. It's also a step toward reimagining how AI can serve not by replacing human care, but by amplifying it with empathy and context.
I’m actively prototyping MemoryMate now, with plans to test it with older adults and caregivers, and eventually collaborate with healthcare experts to evolve the idea further.
Here's my concept video for the capstone:
Further Learning Opportunities in AI Product Design
For those interested in exploring the intersection of AI and human-centered design, here are some other notable courses:
Stanford's UI/UX Design for AI Products: This course emphasizes designing AI-driven user experiences with a focus on user control, trust, and ethical data practices. Learn more here.
Designing AI to Cultivate Human Well-Being: Offered by Stanford, this interdisciplinary course bridges technological and societal objectives, aiming to design AI that promotes human flourishing. Explore the course.
DeepLearning.AI's AI for Everyone: Taught by Andrew Ng, this course provides a non-technical introduction to AI, focusing on its societal impact and how to navigate AI strategy in organizations. Check it out.
Elements of AI: A free online course developed by the University of Helsinki, aiming to demystify AI for a broad audience. Start learning.
These courses offer diverse perspectives and tools for those looking to deepen their understanding of AI in product design.
Let's Collaborate
The fusion of design and AI presents immense opportunities to create technologies that truly serve and uplift humanity. If you're working on projects at this intersection or seeking collaboration, I'd love to connect and explore how we can build responsible and impactful AI experiences together.
A heartfelt thank you to the MIT xPRO faculty and TAs for their guidance and support throughout this journey.
