About
I graduated from UC San Diego with a B.S. in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Design and Interaction and a minor in design.I had an internship with Smart Twigs Consultancy group as a UX Designer for 6 months. I’m looking to gain more experience in the UXand Human Centered Design field and open to anything! Check out my portfolio: www.natalie-varela.com
Skills
Experience
- Barista · Nordstrom Ebar06-01-2024
Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced environment, ensuring customer satisfaction with every order. Prepared a variety of coffee and tea beverages while maintaining high standards of quality and consistency. Managed inventory and restocked supplies, maintaining optimal levels of products at all times. Handled cash and credit transactions accurately, ensuring proper financial procedures were followed.
- Recreation Experience Assistant · UCSD Recreation03-01-2022 – 12-01-2023
Managed front desk operations across three of UCSD’s major recreational facilities, consistently delivering superior customer service and support. Acted as the primary contact for responding to patron emails, providing timely and accurate information about UCSD’s recreational offerings. Acquired cross-training to proficiently support operations in the Fitness Gym, enhancing service continuity and operational flexibility. Participated actively in quarterly staff meetings to discuss improvements and updates in recreational services, contributing valuable insights to enhance user experiences. Oversaw a meticulous equipment check-in and check-out process, ensuring equipment was maintained and accounted for, which significantly improved tracking and availability. Facilitated membership sign-ups and processed returns efficiently, streamlining customer transactions and enhancing overall satisfaction with membership services.
- Student Design Consultant · UC San Diego Design Lab03-01-2023 – 06-01-2023
Engaged in the design of a mobile app focused on the health and well-being of the local community, providing reliable and timely information to users. This project was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Eliah Spencer and in collaboration with UCSD’s Design Lab Center 4 Health. Created wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity designs, incorporating feedback from user research to enhance app functionality and user experience. Participated in workshops, refining skills in design thinking and user-centered problem solving. Played a key role in team meetings and communications, ensuring project alignment with the lab’s goals and user expectations. Presented my app and user research findings to a panel of judges.
- UX Designer · Smart Twigs07-01-2022 – 12-01-2022
SmartTwigs is a global software consultancy group based in New Jersey committed to solving problems with technology. Assisted in the design and testing of user interfaces for new software products aimed at enhancing user engagement. Conducted usability testing sessions, gathering and analyzing user feedback to inform iterative design processes. Collaborated with cross-functional teams including the product managers to ensure design specifications were translated accurately into final products. Prepared detailed design documentation and presented findings to senior designers and stakeholders. Worked independently to establish a brand and identity for a small startup called Bimi. Attended daily standup meetings where we would present our recent progress and/or finalized designs.
- Hostess · SeaWorld San Diego06-01-2021 – 09-01-2021
Interacted directly with guests, providing timely information about events and responding to inquiries, enhancing guest satisfaction and experience. Assisted with park emergencies, including inclement weather, ensuring guest safety and operational continuity during critical situations. Maintained cleanliness and safety of park pathways by sweeping up trash and scanning for debris, contributing to a pristine and hazard-free environment. Played an instrumental role in training new workers, imparting essential skills and company standards to ensure high-quality guest services and operational efficiency.
Education
- UC San DiegoBachelor of Science - BS, Cognitive Science
- The Preuss School UC San DiegoHigh School Diploma
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