Hello everyone, it’s a pleasure to be here with you at the UCI business school. I’d like to share my journey as a UX/UI designer, a path shaped by a lifelong passion for technology and art, and a desire to contribute meaningfully during our limited productive years.

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the possibilities that technology and creativity offer. In the ’80s, I spent my afternoons in after-school art programs, exploring various forms of artistic expression. The ’90s introduced me to the thrilling world of arcades and video games, igniting a curiosity that led me to study MS-DOS—if you’re unfamiliar, it’s the ancient ancestor of today’s operating systems. This period also saw me delve into Artes Plásticas, a discipline blending traditional painting with manual arts like sculpture.

Moving to the United States marked a significant turning point. I pursued graphic design at a community college, immersing myself in the fundamentals of visual communication. In 2004, a former classmate invited me to join his design studio in Long Beach. There, I took on the responsibility of branding and marketing for hotels and local businesses. This hands-on experience was invaluable, allowing me to apply my skills in real-world settings.

Not long after, I embraced the gig economy through a temp agency, which opened doors to numerous agencies and companies. This period was a whirlwind of learning—adapting to different corporate cultures, understanding diverse client needs, and, most importantly, expanding my portfolio.

A pivotal moment came in 2007 with the launch of the iPhone. Sensing the seismic shift it would bring, I realized that mobile technology would redefine how we interact with the world. The advent of the App Store didn’t just change advertising and human interaction; it birthed new career paths. UX design emerged from the shadows, transforming from an obscure title to a critical role in shaping user experiences.

One of the joys of being a designer is the freedom it offers. Our skills are not confined to a single industry; they’re universally applicable. I began in advertising for the Hispanic market but soon discovered that companies were seeking “unicorns”—designers who could seamlessly blend artistry, marketing savvy, web and app development, and even programming. While this jack-of-all-trades expectation can be daunting, it suited me perfectly. I thrive on continuous learning and relish the opportunity to wear multiple hats.

Throughout my career, I’ve held onto a simple yet profound belief: every detail matters. As a UX designer, I see myself as a guide, subtly influencing how people make decisions—be it purchasing a product or navigating information. While each contribution might seem small, collectively, they have the power to make significant differences in people’s lives.

I often reflect on the notion that when you account for vacations, time off, and life’s interruptions, we have about 30 truly productive years. This perspective fuels my desire to make the most of my time—to leave a positive mark through my work and to contribute to a better future.

Quick Facts About a UX/UI Designer’s Career Progression:

  • Early Inspiration and Education:

    • Developed a passion for art in the ’80s through after-school programs.
    • Explored technology and programming in the ’90s, studying MS-DOS.
    • Engaged in Artes Plásticas, merging traditional art with manual crafts.
    • Pursued graphic design at a U.S. community college.

  • First Professional Steps:

    • Joined a Long Beach design studio in 2004 as a designer.
    • Focused on branding and marketing for hotels and local businesses.

  • Diversifying Experience:

    • Worked various gigs via a temp agency, gaining exposure to multiple industries.
    • Learned to navigate corporate environments and client relations.
    • Expanded portfolio with a variety of projects and collaborations.

  • Embracing Technological Evolution:

    • Recognized the transformative impact of the iPhone in 2007.
    • Shifted focus to UX/UI design amid the rise of mobile technology.
    • Adapted to new advertising practices and user interaction models.

  • Skill Expansion and Adaptability:

    • Embraced the role of a “unicorn” designer with multidisciplinary skills.
    • Continuously updated skills in drawing, design, marketing, web/app development, and programming.
    • Leveraged transferable skills to assist a wide range of industries.

  • Philosophy and Motivation:

    • Believes in the power of small details to create significant impact.
    • Aims to guide users toward informed decisions through thoughtful design.
    • Motivated by the limited window of productive years to contribute meaningfully.
    • Sees continuous learning and adaptability as keys to success in design.

  • Career Advice Highlights:

    • Stay curious and embrace lifelong learning.
    • Be adaptable; technology and industries evolve rapidly.
    • Cultivate a diverse skill set to increase versatility and value.
    • Focus on the user experience; small improvements can make a big difference.
    • Remember that every project is an opportunity to make a positive impact.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story. I’m excited to answer your questions and discuss how you can navigate your own paths in the dynamic field of UX/UI design.