QA About My Career as a UX Designer

I'm sharing my professional journey, my current position as a UX designer, and my aspirations for the future as a designer.

Wendy Reyes

Introduction

I’m Wendy Reyes, a UX designer with user research and design expertise. I specialize in developing user-centered products and services. Throughout my career, I have assisted clients from various industries from the planning stage to the final product. I’m passionate about my work and love sharing my knowledge and teaching others through my website, WENDYCECILIA.COM.

We would like to know more about your career journey so far. Please share some details about your path and what motivated you to pursue a career in digital design. Also, we would like to know if anyone or anything in particular encouraged your interest in design. Please share any relevant information that might be useful or interesting.

As a child, I have always dreamed of studying architecture. However, when I went to college, I convinced myself I would be better suited for Business Management. Years later, while pursuing a hobby in writing, I became interested in creating a website to save my writings in one place. I taught myself how to code through books and videos to maintain and design my writing website. This is where I discovered my love for technology.

Later, I became a self-taught web designer, landed my first job in digital design, and switched careers permanently towards technology. Another project led me to an assignment that required me to learn Python, and another project eventually led me to become a certified UX designer, which is my current profession. Looking back, I realize that my career path was not influenced by others but rather by various factors that led me to make career decisions and took me where I am today.

Please provide me with some details about your work. Where do you work, and what is your typical day? Additionally, I would like to know what you find most enjoyable about your job.

As a UX designer for a startup, my role is to ensure that digital products are user-friendly, visually appealing, and meet customers’ needs. Due to technology’s flexibility, I work remotely by logging into the company’s computer daily to carry out my tasks. My typical day starts by checking my emails to see if any urgent matters require my attention. After that, I perform various functions such as conducting user research, designing, and coding. As part of my role, I work closely with the development team to create a design system that aligns with the company’s digital strategy. This involves designing and documenting UX components to ensure consistency. As a UX designer, I enjoy exploring new fields and constantly learning in an ever-evolving industry.

Please provide some information about your long-term goals and aspirations. What do you visualize for your future?

The technology industry has experienced challenging years. This field requires continuous learning as new trends and developments emerge. As someone who is passionate about UX design, I’m committed to staying up-to-date with the latest digital design trends to stay relevant.

Several years ago, I transitioned from a 9-to-5 office desk in Manhattan to a flexible digital design remote job, which I have been able to perform for several years. But, and this is a big “but” for me, I now see myself craving a balance of the two worlds, in other words, hybrid. The plan might be to return to Manhattan after six months or towards the end of 2024 as a hybrid employee working as a Senior UX designer. My ideal schedule would be three days at the office and two remote work days. I’m getting myself ready for that balance, finishing my current design projects so that I’m free to explore new opportunities.

Don’t tell my friends from the city, but I miss seeing them more often.

If I get the hybrid opportunity that I’m looking for, I might return to the city. Luckily, it’s 2024, and healthy companies now offer better work-life balance to their employees. With the right negotiation, they could have this Jersey girl back in Manhattan. Only time will tell because Jersey City and Hoboken could win me anytime over Manhattan. I love living in New Jersey and close to the waterfront skyline area. As much as I appreciate everything NYC offers, I value the calm, less traffic, and better quality of life that New Jersey provides. The older I get, the more I realize I’m becoming less of a city person.

Please tell me about your interests and activities you enjoy pursuing in your free time. I would love to know more about your hobbies and passions beyond your work.

I’m passionate about staying healthy, and when the weather is favorable, I enjoy nature and long walks around the city. I’m addicted to writing and skincare. I love creating playlists and discovering new songs with great lyrics. I’m also into art, but I’m no expert. And lately, I’ve been into smart detective TV shows.

What guidance would you offer other women aspiring to pursue a digital design career?

In the technology industry, it’s not uncommon to face skepticism from others who may not believe that you belong, particularly when you are a woman. However, it’s crucial to remember that if you stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends, remain knowledgeable, and gain relevant experience, nobody can question your expertise in your chosen career path. Building relationships with like-minded individuals who can empathize with your experiences as a beginner can also be beneficial.