2014
I got my B.A. in Photography and Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). Then I took portraits for local creatives, sold my artwork, managed a clothing business, and wrote some articles for a local arts blog, BmoreArt.
2015
The first doors to my career in design opened when I became the Product Photographer & Graphic Designer at a local print studio in Maryland, Archival Arts Inc. This is where I refined my sense of working on a creative team environment to fulfill projects for clients.
2018
I finished my Master’s in Business of Art & Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where I learned how to conduct marketing and competitive research to develop a brand identity, and present a business and marketing plan.
By launching a DIY version of the brand I conceptualized for my thesis project, I expanded my web design and online marketing knowledge as well. While I’ve now stopped selling products, I still revisit Shopify to explore its web building and SEO tools.
2020
While in quarantine, I completed the UX/UI Design Program at Thinkful to bridge into a more technical and analytical career path that combines my training in Psychology Research with the Design Thinking skills I developed throughout my creative journey.
2021
I was invited to be a UI Designer & Brand Manager for a startup web development agency, CodeForma LLC. I built the foundation to their brand design system, and provided design guidance on client projects. They’re now known as Amira Labs, and we’re still affiliated today through our overlapping professional network.
2022
My creative career journey came full-circle when I became UMBC’s Web Manager & UX Specialist in their University Communications & Marketing department. This role is allowing me to step into a broader range of responsibilities, including project management, interfacing with leaders and stakeholders, strategizing and building new systems, and being a supportive member of a diverse academic community.
2024
While looking for freelance opportunities to sharpen my visual design skills, I was invited to be a contractual UI/UX Designer & Graphic Designer for Ready Artwork, an AAPI-owned digital marketing agency based in Monrovia, CA. They specialize in elevating mid-market B2B businesses, many of which are Asian food brands. I’m thrilled to contribute to projects that align with my interests and values.
Outside of Work
Nurturing the artistic side of my brain is essential to keeping me sharp professionally. I enjoy hands-on crafts like instax photography, collaging, doodling, embroidery, and cooking. When I’m not doing artsy things, I like going running, hiking, and traveling to try different foods from new cultures and regions. I’m an animal lover, mental health advocate, and huge supporter of independent creatives, particularly those involved with AAPI and LGBTQIA+ communities.