Przemek Jalowski

What was it that made you want to upgrade your skills from graphic design to something more web-based like User Experience?

The more I looked into User Experience Design and discovered the human aspect of it and how deeply rooted it was in problem solving, I was hooked. Previously, I solved problems visually with graphic design; but now I can take those skills and add in the human aspect of it making it more meaningful to those who interact with the final product. I also wanted to keep current and relevant in order to take my career to the next level.

Why did you decide to take BrainStation’s UX Design Bootcamp?

I wanted to upgrade my skills and transition from regular graphic design to more web based design. I tried to learn UX on my own and it was a slow and difficult process, I was not progressing as quickly as I’d hoped. By doing the Bootcamp program, I was able to learn a lot in a short period of time and get an official diploma out of it.

How would you describe your learning experience?

It was tough, but enjoyable. It was nice to be back in a learning environment where you felt safe. I had the opportunity and the freedom to try, fail and grow. I made some great friends and it was a good community. I appreciated that sense of community and the chance at true collaboration.

It was nice to be back in a learning environment where you felt safe. I had the opportunity and the freedom to try, fail and grow. I made some great friends and it was a good community. I appreciated that sense of community and the chance at true collaboration.

What was the highlight of the UX Design Bootcamp?

The highlight for me, was visiting leading companies in different industries on the student tech tours. It was important that we saw a variety of industries, as having that mix, was valuable for many students because not everyone's going to want to work in the same industry. It gave the opportunity to learn about the different ways that people may work following the completion of the program. I think that BrainStation provides a unique opportunity where they are able to connect students with many businesses – and the benefit of that is it gives people that foot in the door that one often needs to start instead of being just another faceless name on LinkedIn that’s graduated from a similar program.

I think that BrainStation provides a unique opportunity where they are able to connect students with many businesses – and the benefit of that is it gives people that foot in the door that one often needs to start instead of being just another faceless name on LinkedIn that’s graduated from a similar program.

What was the most challenging part of your learning experience?

Learning to let go of my previous conceptions about design and learning to pivot towards a more process-based, research-backed user experience mindset. With graphic design, there's a visual problem, like a poster that needs certain text in certain colours that you have to somehow figure out. With UX, it's all about doing the research, talking to the customers, getting prototypes in front of them and then iterating on that feedback. It was more about understanding the problem rather than just trying to solve it in a creative way.

Can you describe your final project and where you got your inspiration?

When I was younger, I volunteered a lot. Once I was in university and acquired a full-time job, volunteering took a nosedive. But it's always something I've enjoyed. I wanted to figure out a way how I could help people like me to be more engaged and committed. I created a volunteer app that congregates all volunteer positions into one spot, reducing the need to search multiple sites for opportunities. It connects people by fostering a sense of community and tackling the issues of low engagement, inconsistent attendance and the fear of attending an event if your friends cannot make it. Most importantly, it provides a personalized experience based on your skills and interests.

What advice would you give to professionals considering a BrainStation diploma program?

Trust the process. Everything is done step-by-step for a reason and iteration is key. Get an idea out, test it, improve it and repeat. If you have the time and are looking to learn a new skill or upgrade a current one, a Bootcamp program is more effective than simply doing it on your own. Hands-on experience is key.