Born and raised just north of Detroit, Michigan, my creative journey began with a degree in photography and a deep-rooted love for visual storytelling. Over the years, I wore many hats—from professional photo lab technician to picture framer to nanny and office manager—all while raising children and exploring my passions in art, gardening, and graphic design. These experiences taught me adaptability and strengthened my eye for detail. I took classes in Photoshop, graphic and web design, building a foundation that I would later use in my current role as an Executive Assistant at a small company. There, I expanded into marketing—creating print and digital ads, managing web content, and photographing products. Though rewarding, I felt a pull toward something more creatively fulfilling.

Recently, after a major life shift and some serious reflection, I realized I didn’t want to continue on the administrative path. I wanted a career that excited me—something where I could wake up every day feeling energized and purposeful. I listed out the skills I genuinely enjoyed and turned to ChatGPT for guidance. One recommendation that stood out was UX design. The idea of combining creativity, psychology, and problem-solving into something that truly improves lives resonated deeply with me. In fairly short order, I enrolled in a UX Foundations course. As I’ve progressed, I’ve found myself captivated by the depth of the work—it’s not just about making things look pretty, but about making them work well for everyone, especially through accessible, user-centered design.

Looking ahead, my goal is to work in a UX design role at an agency, in a collaborative capacity—preferably remote, but I’m open. I envision myself contributing to projects that empower users, especially women and older adults, with inclusive, thoughtful design. As a middle-aged career changer, I want to be proof that creativity doesn’t have an expiration date. I’m ready to bring my unique background, keen eye for design, and passion for people into a space where I can make meaningful, lasting contributions. I’ve always wanted to do something positive with my creativity—and now, I finally know what that looks like.