Journey Toward UX: Part 1
As a student of art history, architecture and photography, I developed a passion for design. After graduating with a degree in art history, I wasn't quite sure what direction to take professionally. I worked at a museum and coached rowing. I also continued my education with courses in drafting and design. I thought maybe architecture school might be a good fit, so I completed an intensive summer program focused on architectural design.
Still not sure (or convinced that architecture was the best way forward) I took a job in professional services marketing with an engineering firm. I hoped that this job would offer me a perspective on architecture community that would sway me toward, or maybe away from architecture school.
I quickly discovered that architecture as a profession would not be right for me. I feared that my love of doodling on napkins and reading about architects past and present would not survive the rigors of architecture school.
Once the decision was made not to pursue architecture school, I began to wonder if there was some way to bring together my love of design with the diverse skill set I had developed. Drawing, photography, architectural design. These skills, among others, seemed to fit well with user experience, interface and information design. And so, I forged ahead and turned my attention towards rounding out my skill set and acquiring the tools and knowledge I would need to become a strong, dedicated and knowledgeable designer.