Meet Kim Noel: a recent UX Design Institute graduate building her career in UX/UI design.
Before studying UX and UI, Kim worked as a Sales Manager for over four years in the banking sector. Now, with her new UX and UI skills, industry-recognised certifications, and increased confidence, she’s building her own UX consultancy, MindCanvas, even as she continues to sharpen her business skills at the university.
So, what’s it like to study with the UX Design Institute? And how can a university credit-rated qualification boost your skills and career in UX?
Just ask Kim, who says, “My experience with the UX Design Institute has been transformative. It gave me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to build a successful career in UX.”
Let’s take a closer look at her journey so far.
From sales to design: taking the first step towards a new career path
After years of working in sales, Kim wanted to branch out and learn new skills.
She knew that UX and UI design combine creativity and problem-solving, as well as many transferable skills that she’d already honed through her career in sales—such as a user-centric mindset, identifying customer pain-points, and effective communication and collaboration.
She also knew that UX and UI design skills are in high demand, and that learning these skills would help her future-proof her career.
Excited by the prospect of breaking into a new field, Kim went in search of a reputable training program.
Choosing a UX/UI design course: the importance of practical learning, industry recognition, and expert support
Anyone who’s ever researched design courses will know that there are dozens, if not hundreds, of options out there, with a great deal of variation when it comes to quality, depth, and credibility.
After extensive research, Kim decided on the UX Design Institute, citing its reputation, university credit-rating, and practical, comprehensive curriculum as some of the main reasons:
I decided to study with the UX Design Institute for several compelling reasons. Firstly, I was drawn to the Institute’s reputation for offering a comprehensive, industry-leading programme in UX design. The fact that it’s one of the rare UX professional qualification that’s university credit-rated caught my attention and spoke to the programme’s credibility.
Secondly, the curriculum was highly appealing. The course covers a wide range of topics and provides hands-on experience through practical projects. This practical aspect was essential for me, as I believe that learning-by-doing is the most effective way to gain expertise in UX design.
Another significant factor was the flexibility of the course. Kim explains how being able to study at her own pace while still benefiting from instructor support and a well-structured learning path made the programme a perfect fit for her schedule.
Learning UX and UI design from scratch: the power of mentorship, networking, and a real-world curriculum
Kim chose the UX Design Institute for its stellar reputation and in-depth curriculum. But did the courses live up to her expectations?
She first took the Professional Certificate in UI Design in 2023, followed by the Professional Diploma in UX Design in 2024. Reflecting on her experience, Kim can’t speak highly enough of the support she received.
In her own words:
I was impressed by the calibre of the instructors and mentors at the UX Design Institute. Their industry expertise and commitment to helping students succeed were evident throughout the programme. They provided invaluable insights and constructive feedback that pushed my boundaries and enhanced my learning experience. Their guidance was pivotal in refining my skills and boosting my confidence as a designer.”
Another aspect that didn’t disappoint: the quality of the curriculum. Kim highlights how the programme blended theoretical knowledge with practical application, which is essential for effective learning and job readiness.
What truly sets the UX Design Institute apart is its commitment to real-world applicability. The assignments were not just academic exercises; they were carefully designed to mirror the challenges and scenarios you’d face in a professional setting. This practical approach helped me understand the core principles of UX design and I learnt to apply them effectively to my projects and build a portfolio.
Kim also celebrates the strong and supportive network she became part of when studying with the UX Design Institute. She explains:
Networking opportunities with peers and professionals were an added bonus. The collaborative environment and the community discussions were not just about solving course-related queries; they were a window into the broader trends and challenges in the UX world, keeping me in sync with the industry’s pulse.
Beyond the course: unlocking new opportunities with confidence and a strong portfolio
Kim describes her experience with the UX Design Institute as a “game-changer” for her career, equipping her with a robust skill set and a deep understanding of UX design.
Explaining exactly how the UX design course has helped her, she says:
The course deepened my knowledge of UX design principles, research methods, and usability testing. This newfound expertise has enabled me to approach design projects with greater confidence and creativity. The course also connected me with peers, instructors, and mentors who became valuable sources of advice, collaboration, and job referrals.
Thanks to the practical nature of the course, Kim was also able to build a professional portfolio of work to showcase her abilities, which she describes as having been instrumental in securing new opportunities and demonstrating her practical skills to potential employers and clients.
Speaking on how the UX and UI design courses have impacted her career, Kim notes:
Completing two courses with the UX Design Institute has boosted my credibility, opened new career opportunities, and prepared me for more challenging roles, interviews, and client projects.
Looking ahead: a promising future in UX
Overall, Kim feels that the Professional Diploma in UX design has been a pivotal stepping stone in her journey to becoming a UX designer.
As she reflects on her personal growth and explores opportunities in the UX industry, she feels excited about what lies ahead. In her own words:
My experience with the UX Design Institute has been transformative. It gave me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to build a successful career in UX. I highly recommend the program to anyone looking to start or grow in the field. I’m confident it will open new opportunities and support my long-term success.
We can’t wait to see where Kim’s journey will take her next as she continues to build her consultancy, MindCanvas. And, with her commitment to learning and growth, and obvious passion for the field, we’re certain that she has an exciting future in UX ahead of her. You can find her on LinkedIn.
Break into UX with the UX Design Institute
If, like Kim, you want to learn in-demand design skills and take the first step towards an exciting career in UX, make the Professional Diploma in UX Design your first port of call.
With an updated curriculum, 1:1 mentorship, hands-on projects and tutor support, you’ll be in the best possible position to master the UX design process, build a professional portfolio, and prepare for the job market.
You can learn more about the Professional Diploma in UX Design via the official course page or chat with an education advisor for free, unbiased advice.
Want to learn more about the UX industry and what it’s like to transition into the field? Check out the following:
- From graphic design to UX/UI: how Ketan upskilled with the UX Design Institute
- Your guide to landing a job in UX: top insights from the UX Design Institute’s State of Hiring Report
- What is the average salary for a UX designer?
Emily is a professional writer and content strategist with an MSc in Psychology. She has 8+ years of experience in the tech industry, with a focus on UX and design thinking. A regular contributor to top design publications, she also authored a chapter in The UX Careers Handbook. Emily also holds a BA in French and German and is passionate about languages and continuous learning.
