Some might say a slightly unconventional route into User Research as a profession, I studied Contemporary Dance as an undergraduate, going on to perform with an international dance company across Europe after my graduation.
I also then worked in the fashion industry for a number of years.
So, how did I end up here?
empathy
During my studies in dance and movement, and really throughout my entire life, I have had a fascination with figuring out humans. Why people do the things they do, what motivates them, and whats the psychology behind the way we make decisions and respond to our world?
My dance studies focused on the psychology of dance and performance and non verbal communication. Over the years I have done lots of volunteer work with people with learning disabilities that have challenges communicating in the traditional way.
I'm passionate about the fact that communication is more than words, and I take time every day to extend my empathy out into the world to see what I can pick up from those around me, without having to ask.
“Suddenly you notice that there aren’t these separations. That we’re not on a separate island, shouting across to somebody else, trying to hear what they are saying and misunderstanding. You know. You used the word yourself: empathy.”
Change
In 2015, I decided to stop what I was doing, and make a change. I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to work empathically to better the lives of people around me.
I am a huge Star Trek fan, and one of my favourite characters is Deanna Troi, having both Betazoid and Human parents, she is an empath - she can read the emotions of those around her. As well as being the ship's counsellor, Deanna sits next to Capitan Jean Luc Picard on the bridge and advises him on important decisions based on what she can feel from the different alien species they encounter. I decided that I wanted a career where I could do exactly this - gather the thoughts and emotions of others, respond to them empathically, and translate them into useful insights for decision makers.
Hence, I became a User Researcher.
“The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.”
What Else am i passionate about?
Yoga
Geo Caching
Speaking Amharic
Designing and making costumes
Craft activities
Learning and educating myself
Reducing plastic usage
Mental health awareness