December 14, 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, career transitions can be both daunting and exhilarating. Meet Danbee An, an individual who turned her passion for design into a thriving career in User Experience (UX). Her story is not just about switching professions; it's a testament to the power of determination and the transformative potential of lifelong learning.
A Passion for Creativity and Design
Danbee's journey started with a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, a field known for shaping the physical world around us. She had always been captivated by the idea of turning imagination into tangible creations. "I studied 3D Digital Fabrication as a minor in university, and digital design gave me the freedom to design anything I could imagine," she reminisces.
It wasn't long before Danbee realized the parallels between her industrial design background and the world of UX. Both fields are driven by a desire to solve problems creatively, balancing functionality with aesthetics. "UX Design felt like the digital equivalent of Industrial Design, sharing similar mindsets, principles, and processes," she notes. The connection was unmistakable.
The Significance of Good Design
From classic Vespa scooters to the sleek lines of an iMac screen, good design has always held a special place in our lives. It's not just about making things look good; it's about making them work seamlessly. UX/UI designers like Danbee strive to achieve this balance, creating products and experiences that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.In New Zealand, the demand for skilled UX/UI designers is soaring, with salaries that consistently rank higher than the national median. The industry is a fertile ground for those who can marry their creative instincts with a problem-solving mindset.
Mission Ready: A Catalyst for Change
Danbee's transition from industrial design to UX was anything but ordinary. It was marked by her enrollment in Mission Ready's UX Designer accelerator program, a 19-week intensive that would prove to be a pivotal turning point in her career.