These three talented OHIO students created this year's winning Socktober designs through a hands-on project that blended creativity, fundraising, and real-world experience.
Meet Ashim Talukdar '27
Athletic Sock Designer
Ashim, a graduate student in Visual Communication from Dhaka, Bangladesh, found his way to OHIO through his passion for visual storytelling and design. Through scholarship support and hands-on coursework, he's building the skills needed for a successful creative career.
At OHIO, Ashim has gained experience presenting projects, collaborating with mentors, and developing a professional portfolio. He credits project-based learning with helping him grow as both a designer and communicator.
Fun fact: Ashim proudly says he's never lost a sock since coming to the United States, making him a fitting designer for this year's athletic sock.
Meet Zoe Geiss '26
Dress Sock Designer
A Cincinnati native, Zoe earned undergraduate degrees in Visual Communication and Philosophy from OHIO and is now pursuing a Master of Public Administration. She appreciates the opportunities OHIO has provided both academically and financially, as well as the beauty of the Athens campus.
The hands-on projects she completed at OHIO helped her develop skills in client relations, project management, and visual communication that continue to shape her work today.
Fun fact: Zoe calls laundry "the bane of my existence" and admits socks often disappear into the mysterious corners of the laundry room.
Meet Ella Middleton '26
Hiking Sock Designer
Ella discovered OHIO through a high school digital design class and quickly found a home in Visual Communication. As a Publication Design student, she has embraced project-based learning that mirrors professional industry experiences and reinforces the importance of meeting deadlines.
As she prepares to graduate, Ella says one of her favorite parts of OHIO has been the community and the friendly faces she encounters throughout campus.
Fun fact: Like many Bobcats, Ella admits her socks frequently fall victim to laundry day, leaving her constantly replenishing her collection.