10 answers
Kelly
Student
Flagstaff, Arizona
1
Question
Updated
1082 views
What do I need to do to be ready for an internship in UX design?
Career change after a BS in Engineering. Taking UX classes on Coursera and simultaneously pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics. #Fall24
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10 answers
Diane Serra
Technical Project Manager, Tech Lead
3
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Diane’s Answer
If you are adding UX Design to your toolbelt, I highly suggest also learning graphic design. I recommend this because in the event you land on a small team or startup one day, a lot of actual graphic design may be handed your way. I've seen it happen on various teams in various industries. While UX design is not the same as graphic design, I do believe that graphic design can help you stand out among other UX Designers. In fact, I've hired UXers with a graphic design background over those that don't. Hope this helps!
Yiting Lin
UX designer
3
Answers
Shanghai, China
Updated
Yiting’s Answer
It seems that you are comfortable with design tools such as Adobe, Figma, and gain an understanding of user research methods, information architecture, wireframing, and prototyping.
To be ready for an internship in UX design, especially given your background and current studies, here are some key steps you can take:
Build a Portfolio:
Create case studies showcasing your design process, including research, wireframes, prototypes, and user testing.
Include any relevant projects from your UX classes as well as personal projects to demonstrate your skills. e.g. You can find an app, go through review it, then redesign it -- this can be one case studies.
Networking:
Connect with professionals in the UX field through platforms like LinkedIn or industry events.
Tailor Your Resume:
Highlight relevant coursework from your UX classes and your MBA, emphasizing skills like data analysis, critical thinking, and project management.
Include any engineering experience that may enhance your problem-solving abilities in design, communicating skills with developers.
To be ready for an internship in UX design, especially given your background and current studies, here are some key steps you can take:
Build a Portfolio:
Create case studies showcasing your design process, including research, wireframes, prototypes, and user testing.
Include any relevant projects from your UX classes as well as personal projects to demonstrate your skills. e.g. You can find an app, go through review it, then redesign it -- this can be one case studies.
Networking:
Connect with professionals in the UX field through platforms like LinkedIn or industry events.
Tailor Your Resume:
Highlight relevant coursework from your UX classes and your MBA, emphasizing skills like data analysis, critical thinking, and project management.
Include any engineering experience that may enhance your problem-solving abilities in design, communicating skills with developers.
Thank you, Yiting for the advice.
Kelly
Anthony Fransella
User Experience Researcher and Designer
1
Answer
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Basic understanding of aesthetics (rules of composition, color theory, history of design styles in digital media, etc), love people, be organized and highly articulate, be humble, basic understanding of the history of UX, basic understanding of Figma (most likely), basic understanding of UX research. Generally just be a nice, smart, normal person and you should be ok. I've always hired interns and juniors based more on aptitude and personality than knowledge. I can teach you what you need to know, if you have those things in order.
Thanks for the advice.
Kelly
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kelly,
Preparing for an Internship in UX Design
Transitioning into a career in User Experience (UX) design from a background in engineering, especially while pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics, positions you well to leverage your analytical skills and technical knowledge. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to prepare for an internship in UX design.
1. Understand the Fundamentals of UX Design
Before diving into practical applications, it’s crucial to grasp the core principles of UX design. This includes:
User-Centered Design: Familiarize yourself with the concept of designing products that prioritize user needs and experiences.
Research Methods: Learn about various research methodologies such as user interviews, surveys, usability testing, and A/B testing.
Design Principles: Study key design principles including usability, accessibility, and interaction design.
Resources like The Interaction Design Foundation or Nielsen Norman Group offer comprehensive courses and articles on these topics.
2. Build Technical Skills
While your engineering background provides a solid foundation, specific technical skills are essential for UX design:
Prototyping Tools: Gain proficiency in tools such as Sketch, Adobe XD, Figma, or InVision. These tools are widely used for creating wireframes and prototypes.
Graphic Design Basics: Understanding graphic design principles can enhance your ability to create visually appealing interfaces. Consider learning Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.
HTML/CSS Knowledge: Basic knowledge of HTML and CSS can be beneficial when collaborating with developers.
Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to these skills.
3. Create a Portfolio
A strong portfolio is critical for showcasing your skills and understanding of UX design:
Include Case Studies: Document your projects with detailed case studies that outline your process from research through to final designs.
Diverse Projects: Include a variety of work that demonstrates different aspects of UX design—such as user research findings, wireframes, prototypes, and final designs.
Personal Projects: If you lack professional experience, consider working on personal projects or redesigning existing apps/websites to demonstrate your capabilities.
Platforms like Behance or Dribbble can be used to display your portfolio online.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Internships are about gaining real-world experience:
Seek Internships Actively: Look for internships specifically focused on UX design through job boards like Glassdoor or LinkedIn.
Network within the Industry: Attend industry meetups or conferences (virtual or physical) related to UX design. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities and job leads.
Participate in Hackathons or Design Challenges: Engaging in hackathons can provide hands-on experience while allowing you to collaborate with others in the field.
5. Leverage Your MBA Background
Your MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics can provide unique insights into user behavior and market trends:
Data Analysis Skills: Use your analytics training to inform your design decisions based on data-driven insights.
Business Acumen: Understanding business strategy will help you align UX goals with organizational objectives during projects.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Finally, prepare thoroughly for internship interviews:
Understand Common Interview Questions: Be ready to discuss your portfolio pieces and explain your design process clearly.
Practice Problem-Solving Scenarios: Many interviews may include practical exercises where you’ll need to solve a hypothetical UX problem on the spot.
Research common interview questions specific to UX roles through resources like Glassdoor or by connecting with professionals via LinkedIn.
By following these steps diligently, you will be well-prepared for an internship in UX design that leverages both your engineering background and business acumen.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Nielsen Norman Group
A leading organization dedicated to improving user experience through research-based insights and training materials focused on usability and interaction design.
2. Interaction Design Foundation
An educational platform offering extensive resources including courses on various aspects of interaction design and user experience aimed at both beginners and advanced practitioners.
3. Coursera
An online learning platform providing access to courses from top universities covering essential skills needed for UX design including prototyping tools and user research methodologies.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Preparing for an Internship in UX Design
Transitioning into a career in User Experience (UX) design from a background in engineering, especially while pursuing an MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics, positions you well to leverage your analytical skills and technical knowledge. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to prepare for an internship in UX design.
1. Understand the Fundamentals of UX Design
Before diving into practical applications, it’s crucial to grasp the core principles of UX design. This includes:
User-Centered Design: Familiarize yourself with the concept of designing products that prioritize user needs and experiences.
Research Methods: Learn about various research methodologies such as user interviews, surveys, usability testing, and A/B testing.
Design Principles: Study key design principles including usability, accessibility, and interaction design.
Resources like The Interaction Design Foundation or Nielsen Norman Group offer comprehensive courses and articles on these topics.
2. Build Technical Skills
While your engineering background provides a solid foundation, specific technical skills are essential for UX design:
Prototyping Tools: Gain proficiency in tools such as Sketch, Adobe XD, Figma, or InVision. These tools are widely used for creating wireframes and prototypes.
Graphic Design Basics: Understanding graphic design principles can enhance your ability to create visually appealing interfaces. Consider learning Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.
HTML/CSS Knowledge: Basic knowledge of HTML and CSS can be beneficial when collaborating with developers.
Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to these skills.
3. Create a Portfolio
A strong portfolio is critical for showcasing your skills and understanding of UX design:
Include Case Studies: Document your projects with detailed case studies that outline your process from research through to final designs.
Diverse Projects: Include a variety of work that demonstrates different aspects of UX design—such as user research findings, wireframes, prototypes, and final designs.
Personal Projects: If you lack professional experience, consider working on personal projects or redesigning existing apps/websites to demonstrate your capabilities.
Platforms like Behance or Dribbble can be used to display your portfolio online.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Internships are about gaining real-world experience:
Seek Internships Actively: Look for internships specifically focused on UX design through job boards like Glassdoor or LinkedIn.
Network within the Industry: Attend industry meetups or conferences (virtual or physical) related to UX design. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities and job leads.
Participate in Hackathons or Design Challenges: Engaging in hackathons can provide hands-on experience while allowing you to collaborate with others in the field.
5. Leverage Your MBA Background
Your MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics can provide unique insights into user behavior and market trends:
Data Analysis Skills: Use your analytics training to inform your design decisions based on data-driven insights.
Business Acumen: Understanding business strategy will help you align UX goals with organizational objectives during projects.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Finally, prepare thoroughly for internship interviews:
Understand Common Interview Questions: Be ready to discuss your portfolio pieces and explain your design process clearly.
Practice Problem-Solving Scenarios: Many interviews may include practical exercises where you’ll need to solve a hypothetical UX problem on the spot.
Research common interview questions specific to UX roles through resources like Glassdoor or by connecting with professionals via LinkedIn.
By following these steps diligently, you will be well-prepared for an internship in UX design that leverages both your engineering background and business acumen.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Nielsen Norman Group
A leading organization dedicated to improving user experience through research-based insights and training materials focused on usability and interaction design.
2. Interaction Design Foundation
An educational platform offering extensive resources including courses on various aspects of interaction design and user experience aimed at both beginners and advanced practitioners.
3. Coursera
An online learning platform providing access to courses from top universities covering essential skills needed for UX design including prototyping tools and user research methodologies.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Kelly
Aman Kumar
Software engineer
161
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Aman’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
It’s awesome that you’re venturing into UX design! Given your engineering background and current academic pursuits, you already have a solid foundation to build on. To prepare for your internship, I would recommend focusing on a few specific areas that can really help you stand out.
First, start building your portfolio. Since you’re taking UX classes on Coursera, make sure to apply what you’re learning in real or pro bono projects. For example, you could redesign a local business’s website or create user personas for a non-profit organization in Flagstaff. This not only gives you practical experience but also showcases your ability to address real-world problems and present them in your portfolio.
Second, familiarize yourself with design tools widely used in the industry like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD. These are crucial for creating wireframes and prototypes. If you haven’t already, try out Figma, as it has collaborative features which are perfect for working with teams – something you’ll likely encounter in any internship. You might even take it a step further and share your designs and prototypes on platforms like Behance or Dribbble to gather feedback.
Lastly, networking is key. Engage with local UX meetups or webinars to connect with professionals in the field. Sites like Meetup.com can help you find UX design groups in Flagstaff or nearby. You could potentially find a mentor who can offer guidance and even refer you to internship opportunities.
Wishing you the best as you transition into UX design! You’ve got this!
Best regards,
Aman
It’s awesome that you’re venturing into UX design! Given your engineering background and current academic pursuits, you already have a solid foundation to build on. To prepare for your internship, I would recommend focusing on a few specific areas that can really help you stand out.
First, start building your portfolio. Since you’re taking UX classes on Coursera, make sure to apply what you’re learning in real or pro bono projects. For example, you could redesign a local business’s website or create user personas for a non-profit organization in Flagstaff. This not only gives you practical experience but also showcases your ability to address real-world problems and present them in your portfolio.
Second, familiarize yourself with design tools widely used in the industry like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD. These are crucial for creating wireframes and prototypes. If you haven’t already, try out Figma, as it has collaborative features which are perfect for working with teams – something you’ll likely encounter in any internship. You might even take it a step further and share your designs and prototypes on platforms like Behance or Dribbble to gather feedback.
Lastly, networking is key. Engage with local UX meetups or webinars to connect with professionals in the field. Sites like Meetup.com can help you find UX design groups in Flagstaff or nearby. You could potentially find a mentor who can offer guidance and even refer you to internship opportunities.
Wishing you the best as you transition into UX design! You’ve got this!
Best regards,
Aman
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Kelly
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
357
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
To be ready for an internship in UX design, focus on building a strong foundation in UX principles, tools, and design thinking. Your background in engineering and business analytics provides a solid problem-solving and analytical skill set, which is valuable in UX. In addition to your Coursera classes, gain practical experience by working on personal or freelance design projects, creating a portfolio that showcases your process, from research to wireframes to final design. Familiarize yourself with design tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch. Networking through UX communities or LinkedIn and seeking mentorship can also help secure an internship.
Thank you, Angel!
Kelly
John Hand
User Experience Designer
28
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
There are some great answer here but I'll try to give you an alternative perspective.
Cultural: Study the culture of the companies you are applying to or starting an internship with. Skills can be taught, but culture is much more difficult to change.
Professional: Consider doing a few projects for free to get work examples and case studies in your portfolio. Local non-profit organizations or small businesses are usually happy to receive some pro-bono help. Make sure your case studies clearly define the problem, outline the research you did, include customer feedback or quotes, state your hypothesis, show iterations of prototypes from sketch to high definition, show the final product, and validation with metrics and data. Be sure to highlight any stakeholder alignment or cross-team collaboration.
Social: Be able to talk about your work, explaining design principles, heuristics, what design decisions you made and why. Be ready to answer questions tying these processes back to business goals or analytics. Be able to talk your way through the design thinking process, advocate for user needs, and explain your methodologies. Also, I recommend (at least once) mentioning a failure along the way. Design is an iterative process, so owning when things go wrong and how you learned from and bounced back from setbacks will tell employers a lot about how you work.
Intellectual: Don't shy away from research skills. Leverage both quantitative and qualitative data during your research process, and during validation. Practice talking about your work with both your stakeholders/clients, and with interviewers. It's one thing to create a nice website portfolio highlighting your work, but it's another to be able to talk about that work on the fly and answer questions clearly. Those skills will help you stand out as a candidate and become a valued asset even as an intern. Take an attitude of always being curious and hungry to learn more, always asking "why?"
There are some great answer here but I'll try to give you an alternative perspective.
Cultural: Study the culture of the companies you are applying to or starting an internship with. Skills can be taught, but culture is much more difficult to change.
Professional: Consider doing a few projects for free to get work examples and case studies in your portfolio. Local non-profit organizations or small businesses are usually happy to receive some pro-bono help. Make sure your case studies clearly define the problem, outline the research you did, include customer feedback or quotes, state your hypothesis, show iterations of prototypes from sketch to high definition, show the final product, and validation with metrics and data. Be sure to highlight any stakeholder alignment or cross-team collaboration.
Social: Be able to talk about your work, explaining design principles, heuristics, what design decisions you made and why. Be ready to answer questions tying these processes back to business goals or analytics. Be able to talk your way through the design thinking process, advocate for user needs, and explain your methodologies. Also, I recommend (at least once) mentioning a failure along the way. Design is an iterative process, so owning when things go wrong and how you learned from and bounced back from setbacks will tell employers a lot about how you work.
Intellectual: Don't shy away from research skills. Leverage both quantitative and qualitative data during your research process, and during validation. Practice talking about your work with both your stakeholders/clients, and with interviewers. It's one thing to create a nice website portfolio highlighting your work, but it's another to be able to talk about that work on the fly and answer questions clearly. Those skills will help you stand out as a candidate and become a valued asset even as an intern. Take an attitude of always being curious and hungry to learn more, always asking "why?"
This is really helpful, thank you.
Kelly
Deeshani Batra
Software Engineer
69
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Deeshani’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
To get ready for a UX design internship, start by building a strong portfolio. Focus on a few solid projects that show your UX process—from research to prototyping and testing. Even personal projects or work from your Coursera classes can be great to include. Since you're already taking classes and have an engineering background, you'll probably pick up tools like Figma or Adobe XD quickly—these are essential in UX.
Your MBA can be a huge advantage because you’ll understand how UX connects to business goals. Be ready to explain how your designs solve real problems and add value. Networking is also important, so try joining UX communities or sharing your work online to get feedback and connect with professionals. When applying, highlight transferable skills from your engineering and analytics background—things like problem-solving and understanding complex systems really stand out in UX.
If you focus on these areas and stay consistent, you’ll be ready for an internship in no time! Let me know if you need help with anything specific.
All the best!
To get ready for a UX design internship, start by building a strong portfolio. Focus on a few solid projects that show your UX process—from research to prototyping and testing. Even personal projects or work from your Coursera classes can be great to include. Since you're already taking classes and have an engineering background, you'll probably pick up tools like Figma or Adobe XD quickly—these are essential in UX.
Your MBA can be a huge advantage because you’ll understand how UX connects to business goals. Be ready to explain how your designs solve real problems and add value. Networking is also important, so try joining UX communities or sharing your work online to get feedback and connect with professionals. When applying, highlight transferable skills from your engineering and analytics background—things like problem-solving and understanding complex systems really stand out in UX.
If you focus on these areas and stay consistent, you’ll be ready for an internship in no time! Let me know if you need help with anything specific.
All the best!
Thank you so much, Deeshani!
Kelly
Harkamal Panesar
UX/UI Designer
9
Answers
Mason, Ohio
Updated
Harkamal’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
Getting Ready for a UX Design Internship-
Here's a step-by-step guide to prepare for your UX design internship:
1. Master the Fundamentals:
Design Tools: Become proficient in industry-standard tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
Design Principles: Understand core design principles like user-centered design, usability, and accessibility.
UX Research Methods: Learn techniques like user interviews, surveys, and usability testing.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio:
Showcase Your Skills: Create a portfolio highlighting your best UX projects.
Diverse Projects: Include a variety of projects demonstrating your range of skills, from user research to interaction design.
Clear Storytelling: Use clear and concise explanations to communicate your design process and rationale.
3. Develop Soft Skills:
Communication: Practice effective communication with diverse teams.
Problem-Solving: Cultivate a problem-solving mindset and a creative approach.
Adaptability: Be open to feedback and willing to iterate on your designs.
Empathy: Develop the ability to understand and respond to user needs.
4. Network Strategically:
Connect with Professionals: Attend industry events, join online communities, and reach out to UX designers on LinkedIn.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can provide guidance and advice.
Practice Your Pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your skills.
5. Gain Practical Experience:
Personal Projects: Work on personal projects to apply your learning and build your portfolio.
Volunteer Opportunities: Contribute to open-source projects or volunteer for non-profit organizations.
Freelance Work: Consider taking on freelance projects to gain real-world experience.
6. Stay Updated:
Industry Trends: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in UX design.
Continuous Learning: Take online courses, attend workshops, and read design blogs.
By following these steps and leveraging your engineering background and MBA knowledge, you'll be well-prepared to excel in your UX design internship and launch a successful career.
I hope this information is helpful.
All the Best!
Getting Ready for a UX Design Internship-
Here's a step-by-step guide to prepare for your UX design internship:
1. Master the Fundamentals:
Design Tools: Become proficient in industry-standard tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
Design Principles: Understand core design principles like user-centered design, usability, and accessibility.
UX Research Methods: Learn techniques like user interviews, surveys, and usability testing.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio:
Showcase Your Skills: Create a portfolio highlighting your best UX projects.
Diverse Projects: Include a variety of projects demonstrating your range of skills, from user research to interaction design.
Clear Storytelling: Use clear and concise explanations to communicate your design process and rationale.
3. Develop Soft Skills:
Communication: Practice effective communication with diverse teams.
Problem-Solving: Cultivate a problem-solving mindset and a creative approach.
Adaptability: Be open to feedback and willing to iterate on your designs.
Empathy: Develop the ability to understand and respond to user needs.
4. Network Strategically:
Connect with Professionals: Attend industry events, join online communities, and reach out to UX designers on LinkedIn.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can provide guidance and advice.
Practice Your Pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your skills.
5. Gain Practical Experience:
Personal Projects: Work on personal projects to apply your learning and build your portfolio.
Volunteer Opportunities: Contribute to open-source projects or volunteer for non-profit organizations.
Freelance Work: Consider taking on freelance projects to gain real-world experience.
6. Stay Updated:
Industry Trends: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in UX design.
Continuous Learning: Take online courses, attend workshops, and read design blogs.
By following these steps and leveraging your engineering background and MBA knowledge, you'll be well-prepared to excel in your UX design internship and launch a successful career.
I hope this information is helpful.
All the Best!
Thanks for the helpful advice!
Kelly
Hitesh Haran
Product Management
25
Answers
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Updated
Hitesh’s Answer
Hi Kelly, you seem to be at an interesting crossroads of Engineering, Business Analytics and UX Design. An internship lands you a great opportunity to help decide the road to take for your career journey ahead.
My only advise is to be prepared to answer/seek clarity (for yourself as well as the potential interviewer) - Why UX Design internship make sense for you?
Explore and try to understand your deep rooted interests, passions and motivations to figure out what drives you to the field of UX.
All the best!
My only advise is to be prepared to answer/seek clarity (for yourself as well as the potential interviewer) - Why UX Design internship make sense for you?
Explore and try to understand your deep rooted interests, passions and motivations to figure out what drives you to the field of UX.
All the best!
Your advice was so helpful!
Kelly