Resume

I originally set out to become an architect, but along the way, I realized I was more fascinated by people than buildings. That realization led me to UX design—a field that lets me blend cognitive science, creativity, and problem-solving. My journey hasn’t been linear (I’ve faced my fair share of rejections and unexpected detours), but each challenge has shaped me into a stronger, more adaptable designer.

Download my resume to see my full skill set, or keep reading for a look at how I carved my own path into UX!

Experience

My UX Journey

Started at the University of Michigan thinking I’d be an architect.

→ Loved architecture (my family are huge Frank Lloyd Wright fans), but something didn’t click.

Discovered UX design through psychology.

→ Took a psych class and realized I was more interested in people than buildings.
→ Learned about UX—where psychology and design meet.

Applied to the School of Information (UMSI) in 2019 and didn’t get in.

→ A tough rejection, but I decided to carve my own path.
→ Studied Cognitive Science, took a Digital Design course abroad, and assisted Professor Gabi Marcu in UX research.

Then COVID hit.

→ Internship plans were canceled, but I found an opportunity at a tiny startup called Cookie Jar.
→ No one there had even heard of UX—I had to advocate for it while learning on the job.
→ Became UX Design Lead and continued working there part-time during my senior year.

After graduation, joined Accenture Song

→ Worked in the Digital Products Studio, tackling fast-paced UX challenges.

Now volunteering at TalleFlow while looking for my next opportunity.

→ Always learning, always designing, always advocating for great user experiences.

Let's connect!

Interested in working together or just want to say hi? Let's connect on LinkedIn.

Want the details? Download my resume.

@ 2025 Dana Dean

P.S. This website is typeset in the font Syne.