A Bit More About Me

Work Experience

Freelance Design

Current

I'm currently a freelance designer, supporting various companies in building their online experiences.

UCI-Capstone Project

Mar 2024 - Sept 2024

I partnered with Varian to streamline their Bravos Afterloader software, an oncology treatment system. As a UX designer, I led the research process, which included user interviews, heuristic evaluations, and usability testing. Based on these insights, I created wireframes, mockups, and a comprehensive user journey map to enhance the software’s usability and effectiveness.

PTKorea

Nov 2016 - Dec 2021

As a UX designer, I oversaw the UX for Samsung.com, a global website servicing over 200 countries. I also designed various B2C and B2B platforms for Samsung targeting specific countries, including Japan, the UK, and South Korea.

FEIT

Apr 2016 - Nov 2016

I led the Samsung Developer website renewal project, overseeing the entire process from research and design to delivery. I conducted interviews, surveys, usability testing, card sorting and produced comprehensive design guidelines to ensure a cohesive user experience.

Alibaba

Dec 2015 - Mar 2016

As an UX design intern, I designed features for the Tmall app, which had over 500 million monthly active users in China, and I also created design guidelines.

Academic

UC Irvine

Sept 2024

The Master of Human Computer Interaction and Design (MHCID) 

Hansung University

Feb 2017

Bachelor of Fine Art • Visual Communication • Minor in Western Art 

I love designing for both users and businesses.

Throughout my career, I have thrived on creating platforms grounded in a deep understanding of users. I place great value on aligning these designs with business goals. Through research, design, measurement, launch, and iteration, I prioritize accessibility, intuitiveness, and empathy to create engaging and business-supportive designs.

I'm from South Korea 🇰🇷
I've lived in France 🇫🇷 and China 🇨🇳
I'm currently living in the US 🇺🇸

I enjoy exploring new cultures and working with people from diverse backgrounds because I believe that diversity fosters creativity. This belief led me to live in different countries and become the first in my family to immigrate from South Korea to the US.

I have a deep love for nature and exploring the world firsthand 🌎

When I'm not designing, I enjoy hiking, swimming, and immersing myself in the real world.

Highlights from my life beyond design

Highlights from my life beyond design

Kayaking in the Florida Keys

Windsurfing on Jeju Island, South Korea

Hiking at Great Falls in Virginia

Snorkeling in the Florida Keys

End of the page, but just the beginning of our journey. Let's create together! 🤟

© 2024 Mela Son

End of the page, but just the beginning of our journey. Let's create together! 🤟

© 2024 Mela Son

End of the page, but just the beginning of our journey. Let's create together! 🤟

© 2024 Mela Son