Interaction Designer
My Story
The Beginning
I am first generation American. My parents migrated here from South America so my first language is Spanish. I learned English in kindergarten. I love this country since I learned from an early age that hard work and a positive attitude opens many doors and opportunities.
My parents exposed us to traveling at a very early age. They wanted us to see the big round world out there and enjoy it as best we could. They saved up for these trips so we could see our Bolivian roots as well as other cultures.
I thought all I would do is travel in life but one day I read an article about Salvadore Dali who had just passed away and realized I wanted to get into the arts.
School
I went to a JC and then University where I focused on technology and how it worked well with the arts..it was love at first sight..all those CAD machines, CGI's, programming, Photoshop (state of the art equipment and programs donated by our friendly Silicon Valley companies) - the ability to manipulate art or make something appear real - very cool stuff!!
Career
My first real job was at SEGA Networks working in their documentation department. Not very exciting but it was a start to the realization that you should enjoy your work environment so you're inspired to work harder. From then on, I always looked at the company product/services first and foremost. Eventually I found my niche as an Interaction Design - through the help of Yahoo! I came to realize it was all about the user..I enjoyed eliminating any trace of unnecessary complexity or obstacles to deliver successful end-to-end experiences..a life skill, keep it simple.
Family
I am a mother of 3 healthy children and a wife of one sporty Scotsman:)...I have come to realize I am conducting my own usability studies every day in my own home. I have learned:
Do not discount crazy ideas.
It IS possible to balance a glass of water with a toothpick (for a few seconds).
That CAN be built.
We WILL scale.
It’s hard to let go of your ego and pre-conceived beliefs to uncover the impossible. Practicality is important in life but has no place when discovering magic. Don’t let your smarts get in the way of magic.
Outdoors
I love to be outside - hiking, biking and Tae Kwon Do are my favorite past times. I love extreme sports even though I find my self more careful.
Personal Growth
Observing what you don’t do is just as telling as what you do do.
Why didn't I go Tae Kwon Do today?
What influenced me to choose Peets Coffee over Starbucks?
Why didn't I purchase that book recommended by my good friend?
Sharing
I love to take my kids to the beach..this is were I see them shine so bright..they are running and smiling and just happy to be. I love to expose them to the world in small bites.