After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in cognitive science, Charlotte Lau decided to move to Umeå to begin her master’s degree in Human Computer Interaction (HCI). She graduated in 2019 and today she works as an UX-designer and Senior Product Designer at a company located in Umeå.
“My interest in UX-design increased”
After taking a bachelor degree in cognitive science, Charlotte decided to take a course within the subject of UX-design. During her studies, the interest in UX-design increased and she decided to apply for a master within the HCI-program.
Talking about the difference between a master and bachelor degree, Charlotte argues that the master requires more discipline and personal responsibility. During the education there is a lot of theory, but Charlotte also points out the opportunities you get to experiment.
During her education Charlotte got the chance to try, among other creative things, 3D-printing and prototyping.
"It’s important that you can show how you have arrived at what you have created”
The practical elements within the HCI-program enable students to build up their own portfolio. Future employees within the design-industry are often expected to present results from their earlier projects.
Charlotte, on the other hand, explains that employers are more interested in the process behind the end-product. While studying at the HCI-program, she got the chance to practice, present and analyze the process behind designing a new product. Charlotte also gained knowledge about design and prototyping.
In all, the program resulted in a holistic view on design. Her broad understanding for the subject has helped Charlotte in her work as an UX-designer.
“Trust your competence”
Charlotte describes the HCI-program as broad while also offering many options and opportunities to specialize in what you find most interesting. In Charlotte's case it was UX design that attracted her most, so her choice of career was obvious.
She gives the advice to other newly graduated students to have faith in their competence and show employers that they can collaborate with other people.
