My Journey as a Recently Graduated UX/UI Designer

When I graduated from college a few months ago, I was filled with enthusiasm and confidence as a Communication Designer. My time at the Indian Institute of Art and Design laid the foundation for my design career and ignited my love for the craft.

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Stepping into the industry, however, felt like being blindly thrown into the vast sea. It was overwhelming yet exciting, shattering my confidence into pieces. One glaring realization was that my college education hadn't prepared me extensively for UX/UI Design . Although I had explored various areas of digital design, I felt lost as I embarked on my first project at GDD.

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As I started working with my existing skill set, I delved into an extensive exploration and ideation process. Along the way, I received valuable feedback that made me aware of the time-consuming nature of the design process. I soon realized the need for a more efficient and effective approach that worked for me. I began timing each step, setting goals, and prioritizing quality over quantity in my design work.

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One significant challenge I encountered was a project centered around an assessment platform for recruiters. Organizing and presenting large amounts of analytical data in an intuitive manner posed a formidable task. Striving for a balance between data organization and visual appeal, I embraced the challenge. Step by step, I learned to tackle hurdles, finding innovative ways to represent complex information.

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Throughout this journey, I constantly emphasized the importance of maintaining a delicate balance between critical self-analysis and appreciation for my work.

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Recognizing my weaknesses, particularly in UI design and wireframing, led me to actively seek learning opportunities. I devoured resources, both through observation and reading, building my skills and confidence.

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Soon, I had the chance to apply my learnings to a real project. Establishing a strong sense of hierarchy and becoming adept at wireframing helped me evolve as a designer. Working with color and creating high-fidelity designs injected excitement into my daily routine. I deepened my understanding of scalability, how to meet business needs through design, and the significance of considering development constraints.

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These experiences have shaped my understanding that progress is never linear; it requires constant effort and perseverance. Rather than viewing setbacks as an end, they serve as stepping stones towards improvement and growth. As I gaze into the vast sea of design possibilities ahead, I face the challenges fearlessly. I am ready to harness the power of design to create a better world.

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Drawing from my own journey as a new designer, here are some tips for success in the industry:

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1. Iterate, Analyse and Present the Best

As the Hick’s Law States, “The time it takes to make a decision increases with the number and complexity of choices.” When you produce multiple choice in front of people it may get harder to decide and also takes up a lot of time.

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2. Persistence Pays Off

Your college education provides a foundation, but true learning begins outside the classroom. Embrace every design opportunity and approach your work with a growth mindset.

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3. Know Yourself

Identifying your weaknesses allows for targeted improvement, transforming them into strengths. Regular self-reflection is vital to appreciate your progress.

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4. Time Management Matters

In the professional world, effective time management is key. Set goals and stay organized to optimize your productivity.

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5. Find Joy in the Process

Design is more than a job; it's a passion. Embrace the endless possibility within the field and enjoy the journey of creation.

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Drawing from my own journey as a designer with almost 2 years of industry experience, I can confidently say that time has only deepened my love and passion for this field. Over the past year, I have grown exponentially, tackling even greater challenges and pushing my boundaries further. Each project has presented new opportunities for learning and honing my skills.

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Today, I can proudly say that I am no longer the overwhelmed recent graduate I once was. I have developed a strong and confident approach to my design work. The challenges If ace now are not intimidating obstacles, but rather exciting prospects for growth and innovation.

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Looking back on my journey, I would like to emphasize the importance of perseverance and the constant pursuit of knowledge. The design industry is ever-evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is imperative. I have learned to appreciate the value of collaboration, seeking feedback from team members and clients a like to create the best possible solutions.

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As I continue to carve my path as a designer, I look forward to the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. It is a privilege to be part of a profession that allows me to make a positive impact through design. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had thus far, and I am excited to see where my design journey takes me next.