Amber Sewell

Where are you currently working and what is it that you do there?

I am a Senior Interaction Designer (UX, product design) in Google, working on UI controls that appear on Search across all surfaces (mobile, desktop, all browsers and devices).

What does your typical day look like?

I am usually working on several projects at once at various stages of fidelity. All projects ladder up to the same north star, but individual goals can be supported by various teams so I meet with a lot of engineers, product managers, and other designers to keep things going. My area of focus is to design UIs that provide transparency, control and contribute to user trust sentiments in Google's products and services.

Can you tell us a bit about your education and career background?

I have a BA in graphic and web design and MFA in graphic communications, management, and technology. I've worked as a Visual/UX/Digital Designer ever since mainly for advertising-based companies.

Why did you choose to study at BrainStation?

I wanted to pivot back towards UX/UI design and although I was doing this type of work at my current job, it wasn't the exact role I wanted. I thought it would be a good opportunity to fill in the gaps of principles I haven't experienced in a while and be held accountable for updating my portfolio.

I wanted to pivot back towards UX/UI design and although I was doing this type of work at my current job, it wasn't the exact role I wanted. I thought it would be a good opportunity to fill in the gaps of principles I haven't experienced in a while and be held accountable for updating my portfolio.

What was the highlight of your learning experience?

The highlights of my learning experience at Brainstation were the projects and having access to an industry professional as an Instructor.

What was the most challenging part of your learning experience?

The most challenging part of studying at BrainStation was learning to balance my full-time work with the coursework.

After BrainStation, I was able to quickly pivot into the role I wanted to be in, so it was 100 percent worth the investment.

How has your BrainStation experience impacted your career?

After BrainStation, I was able to quickly pivot into the role I wanted to be in, so it was 100 percent worth the investment.

What would you say were the most valuable skills you learned?

Both the UX Design and Web Development certificate courses gave me the confidence I needed to get better in my role.

What advice would you give to professionals considering a BrainStation course?

Think carefully about what you want to get out of it, what your expectations are, and that there is never a guarantee you will get a job right away. There is a lot of work you will have to put in besides taking the course. Be open to changing your mindset and use this as a way to network with other like-minded professionals as well.