Hey readers! If you found this blog, then you’re probably interested in User Experience (UX) Design, a professional in the design field, or just a supporting friend or family member. Whatever the case is, I’m so glad you’re here!
This is the first post of my UX Design journey, so first things first – how the heck did I stumble into this beautiful world of UX? Well, there’s a long answer, which includes finding myself in an amazing job during college working with designers, developers, and clients, then graduating and going through some constant soul searching while taking up jobs I was never completely satisfied in. However, I’ll save you some time and give you the short version.
I lost my job.
Pre-covid, I was working as an Account Manager in the specialty coffee and tea industry. I had the opportunity to work with local coffee roasters, hipster cafes, and boutique hotels all around Chicago. I knew of seasonal blends and up-and-coming shops before any of my friends; it was a 25-year-old coffee snob’s dream. Then Covid-19 hit, and business was forced to shut down. While losing my job and not knowing what the future held was a terrifying time, I have to admit, it was in a way a blessing in disguise. I say this with no intention of speaking on behalf of the millions who have lost their jobs due to Covid-19, but in my particular case, I was fortunate enough to be able to see it as an opportunity to make a jump and pivot my career in a more creative role.
After a lot of digging and thorough research on comparing my skills and passions to different industries, I found User Interface (UI) Design. I had taken different types of art classes in college, including a graphic design course, and had some friends in the design world, so I thought it could be right up my alley. While reading up on UI, however, I came across UX Design. I knew right away that this was a better fit for me. From my marketing and account management background, I already had some of the skillsets that UX Designers have. Not to mention, my mediator personality type gave me the empathetic nature and unconventional perspective that would prove to be beneficial as a UX Designer.
While there’s so much more I can say, I think I’ve talked about myself long enough for one post. I’ll leave you with a quick outline of what you can expect from this blog, though don't be surprised if I add in some twists and turns along the way.
My introduction to UX Design
How my non-design roles have helped shape me as the designer I am
Weekly reflections/learnings
Weekly advice to beginner UX Designers
I’ve only been in the UX Design world for about 4 months now, but I already have so much to say about it. Stay tuned to follow along my journey in the UX Design field and please reach out if you want to chat!
- Kaity
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