We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Birg and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
The habits that have helped me succeed include maintaining a positive inner dialogue, where I make the conscious decision to remain dedicated and committed to my endeavors, career, health and overall expansion. Additionally, I feel that it’s important to establish the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’; AKA, the reason behind why I am choosing to embark on a particular endeavor, or striving to achieve a particular goal Reminding myself of the ‘why’ helps me stay accountable, and disciplined.

Additionally, I’ve established a Morning routine that includes some quick breath work, stretching, expressing gratitude, writing, stating positive affirmations, light exercise, making my list of items to tackle throughout the day, and tapping into different creative outlets. This helps me stay inspired, mindful, balanced, grounded and in the flow.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey towards becoming a UX (User Experience) Designer and Researcher began in 2021, when I had decided to make career change for myself. The UX field seemed very interesting, and since I had possessed a strong background in graphic design, the fine arts, academic counseling and customer service, taking the next step of applying that foundational experience, and expanding into another realm where I could exercise creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving, seemed like an awesome opportunity to seize.

After conducting some research and receiving guidance from a friend who had been working in the UX field for almost a decade, I made the decision to enroll in a UX/UI Bootcamp through the University of Arizona Online, so I could receive a good education while developing a portfolio, resume and building a network and community of other UX Practitioners. The Bootcamp was incredibly fast-paced and challenging, and while it will remain as one of, if not THE hardest tasks that I had ever taken on, it was also one of the best decisions that I had ever made for myself. I completed the 6-month bootcamp with an A+ average, and received solid instruction and mentorship from my Teacher, Robert Johnson.

Landing a position in the UX field was my top priority, since I had decided to resign from my job, one month prior to finishing Bootcamp, so I could focus all of my time and energy towards the next step in my career. Upon completion of the program, I devoted my time towards building my UX website, refining my case studies and portfolio, continuous learning, networking on LinkedIn, writing cover letters, applying for jobs and attending virtual UX meet-ups. One of the bonuses of the Bootcamp included the opportunity for us to to present a case study to industry professionals (called ‘Demo Day’), where I was connected with my now colleague and friend, Bill Anderson, who worked as a Senior UX Designer for Home Depot Corporate Headquarters. One month after delivering my presentation, I received a post for a UX Apprenticeship Opportunity through Home Depot, from Bill! After reading the job description, the role seemed like a perfect fit for a newbie UXer, like myself! So, I submitted my application, resume and cover letter.

A few days later, a recruiter from Home Depot, by the name of Cate, contacted me, and we spoke more about the Apprenticeship. Because she felt that I was a good fit, I took the next in setting up an interview with Home Depot Enterprise UX staff. After completing the interview that involved a white-board challenge, both individual and group session, and design critique, I received and accepted the offer for a UX Apprenticeship position within the Home Depot! And, three months after the apprenticeship finished, I was converted to a Junior UX Designer through my currently employer, Synergis, where I still am still contracted with the Home Depot Enterprise UX team. Since then, I have been promoted to a mid-level User Experience Designer, and have gained great experience in completing UX research initiatives, story-telling and designing.

It’s been an amazing journey filled and balanced with excitement, joy, stimulation, empowerment, joy, contrast and relief! There were many moments where I experienced great fear and uncertainty as to whether or I not would become employed within the timeline that I had created. But, by exercising tenacity and determination, along with personal dedication and commitment, I was able to remain grounded, and trust that I could and would accomplish my goals, as well as make my dreams become a reality. When times became rough, I received support and encouragement from my Family and Friends; having a solid and loving support system is such a beautiful blessing!

During my continual UX journey, I am constantly reminded of the power and strength of the human mind and spirit; we can accomplish and create anything we want for ourselves. Through hard work, a positive inner dialogue, surrender, strength, perseverance, courage, accountability and remaining present, engaged, passionate and hungry for growth, one can only succeed.

For those who are embarking on any sort of journey, always remember…
“When you feel defeated in midst of pursuing your dreams, allow yourself to feel it, then, release it, and get back on track. Never give up, and never stop believing in yourself! Keep going! You got this! :)”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
– If one of my best friends paid me a visit to Phoenix, I would provide an amazing experience by visiting the following places and engaging in the following activities, for the following reasons:
– Desert Botanical Garden – for exercise, peace, serenity and learning about different desert flora
– Rent ‘Lime’ scooters and ride along Tempe Town Lake – for viewing beautiful scenery in motion
– Enjoy a meal and NA Beer at Mile High Brewing Company – One can’t go wrong with delicious food!
– Hike through Papago Park – Balancing the beauty of nature and city life is done here!
– Butterfly Wonderland – Who wouldn’t want to frolic with, and take photos of such beautiful creatures!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give several shout-outs to my Parents (Linda & Chris), my Brother (Jeff), my Soul Sister (Laura), and my Friends and UX Mentors, Thia & Bill, for all of the support, assistance, guidance and encouragement that you provided during my UX journey. Thank you so much for EVERYTHING! I appreciate and you all! Much love!

Website: https://www.kellybirguxui.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bubblefairy_mermaidgypsy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellybirg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.birg

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BubbleFairyMermaidGypsy

Other: www.kellybirg.com
https://www.youtube.com/@kellybirg

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