A Year of Growth: Reflecting on the Journey So Far

When I graduated, I knew the job market would be tough—but I didn’t expect just how uncertain, competitive, and unpredictable the UX/UI field could be. Finding a full-time, stable role in design hasn’t been easy, and at times, I found myself questioning whether this path was really meant for me.

But deep down, I’ve always known that design isn’t just something I can do—it’s something I care deeply about. This past year, I made the decision to double down on that belief. I used every project not just as a chance to build something new, but as an opportunity to grow—creatively, technically, and personally.

Learning Through Flora 🌸

Flora, an idea that came to me when making a floral arrangement for my mother. A flower bouquet app designed for both in-store and mobile experiences, I challenged myself to get serious about user research. I mapped out multiple user journeys, conducted persona-driven exploration, and began building systems that could support real inventory data and AI-driven suggestions. I also dove into database thinking, conversion funnels, and analytics—skills I used to shy away from, but now genuinely enjoy developing.

Collaboration Through Quilly ✨

Quilly pushed me in a different way. As the sole designer and developer, I redesigned and rebuilt a real product from the ground up—but I wasn’t doing it alone. Working closely with a founder and her community taught me how important collaboration is to a product’s success. It also reminded me how rewarding it is to see my work go live and actually impact people. On the technical side, I strengthened my frontend development skills, moved platforms, and learned how to balance design freedom with CMS structure.

Strategy Through the AI Dashboard 📊

The AI-powered ecommerce dashboard I’ve been working on has been a masterclass in opportunity mapping. Instead of just designing for aesthetics or usability, I’ve had to deeply consider why this product matters. What pain points are we solving? What features truly move the needle for small business owners? There are so many other AI-powered dashboards on the market right now, so why would ours be any different? Through user interviews, competitive research, and experimentation, I’m learning how to build not just screens, but strategy.

Not Just Building Products—Building Myself

If I’m being honest, this year hasn’t always felt like progress. There were moments of burnout, imposter syndrome, and doubt. I considered walking away from UX/UI altogether. But every time I came close, I found myself pulled back by a simple truth: I love this work. I love solving problems, designing systems, and creating things that make people’s lives better.

So instead of walking away, I chose to keep building. Keep reflecting. Keep improving.

And while I haven’t landed that full-time role yet, I hope that when recruiters scroll through my portfolio, what shines through isn’t just the visuals or the prototypes—it’s the dedication, the resilience, and the constant growth behind it all.

This year has been about more than just projects. It’s been about finding my footing, trusting the process, and learning how to keep going—even when it’s hard.

Here’s to hoping that the work speaks for itself—and that the next chapter brings the opportunity I’ve been working toward.

— Emma