Edinburgh Napier University

Tell us a bit about yourself

Originally from Poland, I moved to Edinburgh with my mum in 2012. After high school, I pursued an HND in Textile Design at college, which gave me a solid foundation in design processes. This background proved invaluable during my studies at university, where I built on those skills and applied them in new and exciting ways. 

Why did you choose to study at Edinburgh Napier University?

I chose to study at Edinburgh Napier University because I was impressed by the modern courses that were aligned with industry needs. Initially, I started as an undergraduate in Web Development, but when the university introduced a User Experience course in my second year, I found it perfectly matched my interests and career goals, so I decided to switch.

What attracted you into studying your course?

I have always had a passion for art and design, which led me to seek a course that combined these interests with practical application. When I discovered User Experience (UX) design, I realized it was the perfect fit for me. The opportunity to solve problems and create visually appealing designs aligned perfectly with my interests and skills.

Has your course given you any practical opportunities out with standard teaching?

Yes, my course provided valuable practical opportunities beyond standard teaching. I had the chance to volunteer as an undergraduate research assistant for the paper “GEING COLLABORATIONS: CO-DESIGNING FUTURE TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITIES.” Working closely with a lecturer and PhD students, I helped develop a research co-design workshop. This experience offered deep insights into research methods, key aspects of user experience, and allowed me to learn from older adults about their daily joys and challenges.

Do you have any highlights of studying at Edinburgh Napier University?

One of the highlights of studying at Edinburgh Napier University was collaborating with students from different degree programs on various projects. It was amazing to see how our unique skills combined to produce outstanding work, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary teamwork. Additionally, the support from the lecturers was crucial in motivating me to pursue my goals and achieve success.

Have you faced any challenges?

Personally, the biggest challenge was the first year of University, as everything was remote. This created a barrier where students were too shy to engage. However, over time, we adapted by finding new ways to connect and support each other, which ultimately strengthened our sense of community.

Would you recommend the course to others? If so why?

I would definitely recommend this course to others. It motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and helped me learn valuable skills. The course offers a variety of modules, providing students with the opportunity to master industry-standard software and gain a comprehensive understanding of the field.

What key skills have you learned from your university experience?

During my time at university, I gained several key skills from the practical modules included in my course. These modules were invaluable in preparing me for real-world work situations. Although I did not initially realize their importance, I now see how they helped me develop my interpersonal skills, time management, and problem-solving abilities, which are crucial in my industry role.

Can you sum up your student experience living in Edinburgh?

Living in Edinburgh as a student has been a vibrant and exciting experience. The city offers beautiful natural surroundings and a lively cultural scene, ensuring there's something for everyone. There are numerous meet-up opportunities for students and professionals, as well as rich career opportunities,
making it an ideal place to study and grow.

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying this course?

Be open-minded, curious, and always ask questions. Look for opportunities to learn new skills and be proactive. User experience design offers a variety of opportunities, so do not limit yourself to specialising in just one area, such as research or interaction design; specialization will come later as you progress in
your career.

What’s next for you?

I was fortunate to secure a full-time position as a product designer for a start-up. My goal is to continue learning and improving my skills to become a better designer and create superior products for users. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and committed to making a positive impact in the industry.