Unfiltered Voices: Making Space for Real Life is a space dedicated to open, honest, and meaningful conversations where every perspective matters. As studio culture continues to hold onto the idea that “school should be your top priority,” many students are navigating rent, jobs, leadership roles, and uncertain futures in a rapidly changing world. This session invites participants to speak freely, listen actively, and reflect on how much time they can give to design versus how much they are expected to give. Through small-group dialogue and shared reflection, we will explore the pressures students face today and close by sharing resources, mentorship pathways, and support networks to help students navigate these realities with care and community.