I was not always set on pursuing design. It took exploring different fields to discover my true passions.

During high school, I had little to no idea what type of career path I wanted to pursue. I participated in extracurriculars such as the California Scholarship Federation and Varsity Field Hockey, but was not confident about taking my next steps forward. I entered UC San Diego in 2021 as an undergraduate pursuing Mathematics-Computer Science after noticing patterns of success in my high school level math and computer science courses.

After testing the waters during my first academic year at the university, I began to question what I wanted for my career and what I was truly passionate about. My mathematics courses were interesting, however, I struggled to connect with the material on a personal level. After exploring the different programs that UCSD had to offer, I discovered the Cognitive Science department, and to my surprise, the department offered a specialization in Design & Interaction. I knew little to nothing about what the program entailed, so I decided to speak to a few of my peers about their experience in the department.

I learned about how technology intersects with the brain and became very interested in how design plays a role! What I did not understand prior was how interdisciplinary the field is, allowing me to explore different passions. Since changing my course of action, I have developed many new skills in the field that I am excited to share with you throughout my portfolio!

MY story

I enjoy design because it is interdisciplinary and allows me to explore different fields. Here are some of my current interests:

Career Interests

  • I love the UX & UI fields because they directly reflect human nature and put people at the forefront of design thinking. After collaborating on various case studies and creating design solutions, I enjoy reflecting on how a project can benefit a person and/or a community!

  • Whether it’s a hands-on project like 3D printing or a technology based solution like a mobile application, I have had the ability to participate in many of these product design fields. Thanks to the UC San Diego Design Lab, I have had the opportunity to develop my skills with the funding and resources they provide for their Jr. Designers.

  • Before switching my major, I was a Math-Computer Science Major! Even though I made a change in my academics, I still wish expand my knowledge in the CS field & I am doing so by taking courses online, at UCSD, and by participating in CS internships (2023)!

  • Like many, I began creating art from a very young age. However, I was fortunate enough to attend a high school that offered graphic design courses. Through these programs, I have developed the technical skills (i.e. literacy in programs like Adobe, Photoshop, etc.) to take my creations to the next level! I also like working with different mediums such as collage making with scraps, painting/sketching, and Procreate!

    One aspect of design that I have grown to appreciate is the business field of design. Observing how research and user testing can create solutions and how feedback can drive initiatives and help companies reach their goals allows me to challenge my thinking and put people first.

My Involvement

UCSD Design Lab

I am in the third cohort of Junior Designer at the UCSD Design Lab. At the lab, designers work with clients internally and externally to create design solutions. Some of our client include Callaway Golf, World Design Capital, and Deloitte! The lab hosts weekly meetings to discuss projects, track progress, and create new ideas. The interdisciplinary aspect of the Design Lab allows me to explore different passions in product design, computer science, data science, and more!

ACM

The Association of Computer Machinery (ACM) is a CS oriented organization at UCSD. In addition to attending workshops & events, I have participated in design projects such as the FA22 ACM Showcase where I got to work with a team of designers to pursue a case study & redesign a mobile application. This organization has introduced me to a new community and allows me the opportunity to work on my coding and design skills!

Design for America

Design for America is a UCSD club that works in collaboration with non-profits by pairing teams of designers with organizations in need of design solutions. Through this program, I have been fortunate enough to work teams such as Doors of Change to carry out their mission through social media & marketing. Not only has this been a great way for me to problem solve, but it has also allowed me to practice my written and visual communication skills!

Design Co.

Design Co. is one of the largest & most interactive design organizations on campus. Through the program, I have attended workshops to enhance my technical skills and meet current industry professionals. One of my favorite parts of the organizations is the opportunity to tour different industry campuses such as the Sony, Google, & Twitch Headquarters.

Apple Retail

At Apple Retail, I am currently a Sales Specialist. On the job, I get to learn about people’s experiences & their product needs through conversation and active listening. I work with a team of creative individuals to constantly innovate & create solutions for our customers. During my downtime, I love to explore how Apple products can help me in my design career!

department of defense

During the summer of 2023, I got the privilege of interning for the Department of Defense under the Warfighter Support Division. During my internship, I got to work with cross-functional team of developers as a product designer. I got to carry out user experience studies, create graphics, and work as a front end developer for the company’s internal websites!

UX Speakeasy

As of May 2023, I discovered and joined the UX Speakeasy, which is a group students and working professionals that host and attend networking events. Through this organization, I have been able to increase participation of new members, meet amazing industry workers who share similar passions, as well as advocate for my place in the design world.