Help Alex Get a New Start at Life

After graduating from college, I've worked in communications, in both the public and private sector, for the past 15 years but have always wondered if there was a better career path that was meant for me. Knowing I would need to go back to school to achieve this, I had explored the idea of a Master's degree but struggled to envision how a return to school would be feasible for the next two to four years. It took a lot of self reflection but I finally found a workaround. 

Why UX, You Ask?

According to UX Design Institute , UX design focuses on how it feels to use a product, app or website. Oftentimes a user may not notice good UX design because of the ease and use of the product. However a poorly designed product may leave a user confused or distrusting of the product regardless of how useful or important the product is to a user. A good UX designer puts the user first and is able to meld empathetic thinking, strong communication skills, and a strong visual design. 

When the pandemic hit, many of us had the opportunity to reevaluate our career goals. Last fall I reached out to my close friends and asked "if you could choose a career for me, knowing my personality and skills, what would it be?" One answer stood out: tech. It's always been an area that has interested me, yet I never considered going into the field because I didn't think I had the skills. A few months later I was introduced to UX Design through an Instagram ad (thanks, Big Brother!) and realized that the field fits my quirky background just enough to make a career out of it. UX design perfectly melds my training in visual arts, extensive communications background, and ability to connect with people at a human level to determine the best solutions to their needs . 

Since New Year’s I've been exploring various pathways into tech. I knew I wanted to transition into the industry while enhancing my existing communications skills with a UX-centered mindset. I decided the UXDI bootcamp at General Assembly was the best route for me. Bootcamps are intensive yet nurturing educational environments where I can test my new skills while building out my portfolio. I chose General Assembly specifically because their career preparedness track is designed to make me ready for the workforce from day one. I took a leap of faith (bismillah), applied, and two weeks later got accepted. On June 7, 2021, I embarked on a  40 + hr/week 12 week course that will set the groundwork for my new career.

Why Crowdsource?

The intensive costs close to $15,000 for the duration of the course and I want to avoid starting out my career in debt as much as possible. I am reaching out to friends and strangers alike to help offset the cost. Every dollar counts and will help me get started on the right foot. If I happen to reach the set goal by the time the intensive is complete, everything raised above the dollar amount will either go towards living expenses or will be donated to charity (depending on how quickly I can find a job after completion of the course). The class is already underway, will you help me on my journey?