Originally from South Korea, I've lived in France, China, and now the US

I'm passionate about exploring new cultures and collaborating with diverse teams. This global perspective fuels my design approach, allowing me to deeply understand varied user needs and create resonant, impactful experiences.

Exploring the World, Designing Experiences 🌎

I have a deep love for nature and exploring the world firsthand through activities like hiking and swimming. These experiences cultivate my adaptability and resilience, enabling me to embrace new challenges and environments – a mindset that directly informs my user-centered design approach. I'm driven by a desire to learn, grow, and create impactful outcomes.

Kayaking in the Florida Keys

Windsurfing on Jeju Island, South Korea

Hiking at Great Falls in Virginia

Snorkeling in the Florida Keys

Work Experience

Varian Medial System
(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.

Samsung
(Via PTKorea and FEIT)

Apr 2016 - Dec 2021

As a UX designer, I drove the design of diverse B2B and B2C projects at Samsung, including their official e-commerce website, which served users across 200+ countries. I also developed user-centric platforms tailored to specific markets, such as Japan, the UK, and South Korea.

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 

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

ygson009@gmail.com

© 2025 Mela Son

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

ygson009@gmail.com

© 2025 Mela Son

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

ygson009@gmail.com

© 2025 Mela Son