A Little About Me
/cath • leen/
I'm currently a senior at the University of Houston, studying in the Cullen College of Engineering. I'm majoring in Digital Media with a focus on UX Design, aiming to build a career where creativity meets problem-solving!
Over the past few years, I've had the chance to intern at FinThrive, TA and manage at the UH UX Lab, and represent students at UXPA Houston and UX Coogs. I learned that what I care about most is figuring out why users do what they do, and designing experiences that actually make sense for them. Good design starts with listening, and I try to bring that into everything I create.
I believe design is less about making things look good and more about making things feel right. Whether I'm running a usability test, building out a prototype, or presenting to stakeholders, I try to keep the person using the product at the center of every decision.
outside of work
Being a student can be pretty hectic, especially working part-time! But when I do find the time to spend on myself, I love traveling, reading, playing with video games, creating art, and hanging out with friends and family. Some of my other interests are anime, makeup, fashion, perfumes, and being a huge foodie!
I like to try my hardest in becoming a ‘Jack of All Trades, Master of All,’ so my latest learning endeavors include: archery, electric guitar, and getting my chef on in the kitchen. 👩🍳
If you’re curious for more, I’m just a message away!
skills in my inventory
✦ I love what I do, even the challenges.
It is easy to stay motivated when things go right, but true passion is found in the setbacks. I have learned to enjoy every facet of what I do, including the wins and the hurdles alike. And because I love the full spectrum of my work, it is why I give it my all and adapt to the challenge at hand.
✦ I’m a learning sponge.
I recognize that I still have a lot to learn in the tech industry, but I am a rapid learner. I make it a point to absorb every lesson and experience so that I can use that knowledge to output something even better than before.
✦ I always put the user first.
I believe that exceptional design begins and ends with the person using it, which is why I maintain a firm commitment to putting the user at the center of every decision. Because I prioritize user feedback, I can refine my designs and create products that feel natural and accessible to everyone.
✦ I’m a Storyteller.
To me, the most effective communication is rooted in a compelling narrative. I prioritize storytelling as a means of providing context and clarity to my work. By absorbing the nuances of each unique project, I am able to refine my storytelling techniques and deliver a more resonant final product than before.
UX/UI Design Intern
FinThrive
June – December 2025
Designed high-fidelity prototypes for FinThrive's healthcare finance SaaS platform, collaborated across cross-functional teams to improve usability by up to 15%, and owned feature design from concept to iteration.
Teaching Assistant & Lab Manager
UH UX Lab
January – May 2025
Mentored 50+ students in UX Principles, conducted heuristic analysis for Ethnote, and produced a high-fidelity prototype for an STTR Breast Reconstruction Program client.
Social Media Intern & UX Student Rep
UXPA Houston
March 2024 – May 2025
Facilitated industry speakers and prototyping workshops while growing LinkedIn engagement by 20% through thoughtful, design-forward content.
Freelance Digital Content Producer
The Nuu Moon, The Million, Tiffany G'lam Pro
March 2025 – Present
Managed content strategy for three brands • grew each following by at least 20% • planned a three-day public event for The Million that drew over 200 vendors and 1,000+ attendees.
University of Houston
Cullen College of Engineering
Expected May 2026 - GPA 3.7
B.S. in Digital Media with a focus on User Experience.
Vice President & Co-Founder
UX Coogs
September 2023 – May 2025
Hosted workshops, guest lectures, and networking events while connecting members with industry professionals and job opportunities in UX/UI design.
Volunteer & Coordinator
UH Kesem
August 2024 – Present
Facilitated educational events, interviewed counselor candidates, and partnered with other organizations to host collaborative fundraising initiatives for children's cancer programs.