Ria is a UX designer and fiction writer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She graduated with a B.A. in Graphic Design from Coastal Carolina University where she discovered her passion for creating desktop and mobile applications. When she is not creating designs or penning fantasy stories, she can be found reading or watching content that will help her achieve her lifelong goals.
What inspired you to become a designer?
I’ve always been interested in art and technology. I love seeing what can be created using different tools.
What are some ways that technology has influenced your life?
The fact that I can get online and access millions of resources to improve myself and connect with people is incredible. Just this past year, I managed to learn new skills and double my income, completely changing the trajectory of my life.
What is your favorite quote?
“Your mind is an instrument, a tool. It is there to be used for a specific task, and when the task is completed, you lay it down.” – Eckhart Tolle, The Power of Now
What are your top three favorite books or podcasts?
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, Essentialism by Greg Mckeown, and I’m also loving How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your job?
My learner’s mindset is probably the biggest skill that I bring. I’m very eager to grow and master my craft.
What is a tip you can give to someone who is interested in a similar career path as you?
First, determine whether traditional schooling or self-directed learning is the appropriate path for you. I advocate for self-directed learning if you have the discipline because it puts you in charge of your own learning. Then, follow design leads with 10+ years of experience and new designers with 1-2 years of experience. Try not to fall for the glitz and glam content on social media (what people think is designing when it’s not) and find the ones who will give you an honest take on what it means to be a real designer.
What is a mobile application you can’t live without?
Notion! It helps me organize my life and increases my decision-making power.
What is your favorite movie?
The Lion King 2! Whenever someone asks, “Where am I?” I have to respond, “You’re safe in the Pride Lands.”
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to work on my fantasy novels. I also enjoy watching tech reviews, car reviews, mansion tours, and makeup tutorials on YouTube.
What is your favorite book?
Okay, don’t roast me but it’s Twilight. I know, I know! It’s purely for nostalgic reasons.
What is your approach to providing great customer service?
Empathy! I always try to understand what the customer needs and follow an efficient process to achieve their desired results.
