Carine Chang

My journey began by doing Media Arts during my diploma, where I discovered the possibilities of design. This initial exploration motivated me to go into further education to deepen my curiosity about the intersection of design, technology and human experience and psychology. This led me to doing my BA in Interaction Design at Northumbria.

What are you doing now?

I am a Product Designer, building the User Experiences (UX) and User Interfaces (UI) for various industries, including one of the biggest open-source animation companies, as well as in FinTech, EdTech, and SaaS. Occasionally, I give talks at design events for aspiring UX/UI designers, sharing my experiences. Recently, I went to the United States to pursue my Master’s in Information Systems Management, specializing in AI and Data Analytics.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

As an international student, I wanted a place that could provide a vibrant campus life while ensuring safety in a foreign country. The BA in Interaction Design at Northumbria offered the perfect combination of modules tailored to my needs, and I was particularly drawn to the live project component, which provided the opportunity to work with real business stakeholders and tackle real-world problems. I value meeting new people from diverse backgrounds, and the active student union and wide variety of clubs at Northumbria were significant factors in my decision.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

One thing I really appreciated about my undergraduate degree at Northumbria was the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects and design platforms. I had the chance to dive into sound design, website design, mobile design, experiential design, games design, research, and coding, among others. The highlight were the live projects integrated within my modules. These projects spanned across various industries, including business development, patient healthcare, and design agencies, providing invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world challenges.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

They were very approachable, helpful, attentive to students and tried providing as much guide and exploration to students.

How connected was your course with industry?

Very connected, even until today. I did a placement with one of the top global tech consultancy firms in Newcastle in addition to the live projects integrated into my coursework. This allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained at Northumbria in real-world settings and gave me a valuable glimpse into professional working life.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/give your career an edge?

The projects I completed during my time at Northumbria provided relevant industry knowledge and practical experience, while the staff offered crucial guidance. They allocated time to assist me in building my portfolio and refining my resume so that I am well-prepared for the job market.

What was the best thing about your course?

The best thing about my course was the extensive exploration it offered. The diverse modules constantly reminded me that there are numerous career paths and industries I can pursue. This foundation built at Northumbria, has given me a broad perspective and the confidence to explore various career options and industries. The practical experience gained through different projects further solidified this, showing me the wide range of opportunities available with my academic background.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

The end-to-end design journey, including research, design, prototyping, user testing, and feedback, has been the most valuable skill set I learned during my course. The comprehensiveness of this approach has shaped me into a strong candidate in design thinking for the fields I enter, and to this day, I still use this foundation in my career.

How would you describe yourself in three words after you graduated at Northumbria?

Daring. Knowledgeable. Adaptable

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The presentations. It has undoubtedly shaped me to confidently demonstrate public speaking skills not only in professional settings but also in networking environments.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

I would begin by highlighting the beauty of Newcastle and the welcoming, student-centric atmosphere it offers. Newcastle holds a special place in my heart, and I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to choose it again.

For more information about me see here.