😢 Goodbye, Transformations Community
Two years ago, I found myself at a major crossroads. Having just left my first big girl job as a web developer, I returned to CU Boulder to pursue a masters in product design. My decision was driven by a desire to explore a path I had never allowed myself to consider and did not know much about. Many mentors advised that I "follow the work," which I quickly learned meant embracing opportunities even when the destination is unclear.
I secured a work-study position at The Transformations Community, an academic non-profit gearing up for their pivotal 2024 Conference. As a novice in design, tasked with website responsibilities, I initially approached problems through the practical lens of a developer rather than the creative eye of a designer. This period was marked by a considerable amount of self-doubt. Thoughts like, "why would anyone listen to you?" an “IMPOSTER!” frequently echoed in my mind. However, working in an environment that prioritized my professional development helped me realize the value of my unique perspective.
As I integrated more of my coursework learnings into my role, I began to redefine my understanding of design. It wasn't just about adhering to aesthetic standards or creating visually appealing mockups—it was about problem-solving and strategic thinking. I developed design systems and utilized my coding skills to gather data and measure the impact of our design changes. This practical approach taught me that effective design often requires compromises, especially when resources are limited.
Post-conference, my focus shifted towards designing and developing internal tools such as data dashboards, project management hub, and CRM system. Despite the availability of numerous templates, I learned that tailoring these tools to meet the specific needs of our organization was crucial. This process involved deep dives into the workflows, priorities, and diverse backgrounds of our team members. By designing with empathy and understanding, I was not just creating tools; I was enhancing our operational efficiency and addressing real-world challenges.
Throughout my tenure, I gained confidence in articulating the rationale behind my design choices and educating my colleagues about the interplay between design and technology. This collaborative process not only enriched our projects but also solidified my role as a key contributor to the organization.
Today marks my last day at The Transformations Community. It's a bittersweet moment as I reflect on my beginnings as an inexperienced designer who has grown into a competent and confident professional. The journey has been transformative, as I (somehow) contributed to elevating the design maturity of the organization.
As I step into the next chapter of my career, I carry with me the lessons learned and the relationships built at The Transformations Community. I am immensely grateful for the mentorship and encouragement from colleagues who invested not only in the organization's mission but in my personal and professional growth. My experience is a testament to the power of following the work, even when the path is not clear. It’s about taking leaps, embracing the unknown, and trusting in the process.
See more of my design work here.
