Hi, I’m Kalyn Mitchell.
I stumbled into instructional design by accident, but could not be any happier that I did. As I entered my final year of my Bachelor program in Games, Interactive Media and Mobile Technologies (GIMM) through Boise State University, and I was hunting for an entry-level web developer position. I wanted a role that would let me flex my creativity while using the coding experience I gained during my time in the program.
After months of applying with no luck, a notice for a position at my university popped up. I applied on a whim, not fully knowing what the job entailed, and that chance decision led me to a career I absolutely love. For the past two years, I have been working as an instructional designer, getting to combine creativity, coding knowledge, and client collaboration in a role that continually challenges and excites me.
My Approach
My approach to design is intentional. While I enjoy creating fun, interactive projects, I always aim to craft experiences that meaningfully support adult learning. I focus on gamifying my work, integrating simulations, scenarios, and other interactive elements to increase engagement and help learners actively practice and apply concepts. My goal is to move beyond static content, creating materials that encourage exploration, decision making, and real world application.
Beyond the Designer
Outside of work, I devote a lot of my time to volunteer work with Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB). I am currently raising my third and fourth puppies, Maximo and Endor, for the program. Puppy number one, Ollie, is thriving as a working guide and puppy number two, Kimball, is completing his formal guide work training and will hopefully graduate in the near future. When I am not in the puppy-raising world, you will find me crocheting, tackling DIY projects, getting together with friends to play a Table Top Role Playing Games (TTRPGS), or playing video games whenever I get the chance.
