Urszula Petaś
UX & UI Specialist (Warsaw, Mazowieckie province)
I am passionate about designing experiences and finding solutions to real-world problems. I approach every project with commitment and genuine curiosity. Over the years, I have honed my skills in product development, data analysis and customer service. The experience of working with different teams has taught me how to listen to different perspectives, understand diverse needs and create solutions that benefit both users and companies. When I decided to move into UX design, I realized that it was the perfect field in which I would use my strengths.
What led you to work with the Foundation? We reveal that you are in two roles – graduate and instructor.
Oh yes! It started when I attended a workshop for junior UX women – I knew it would be substantive and professional. I got a lot of support, and when Anna asked if I wanted to get involved as a mentor and instructor – I actually didn’t think twice – I was like YES.
As part of a project for UX junior girls, we focused on self-awareness and confidence building. What did you get out of this workshop for yourself?
I have developed a lot in the area of UX. I think I have simply matured. I’ve strengthened my presentation and meeting management skills at work: on the board, with the team. Now I know how to smartly and effectively argue design decisions and guide the client through the design process. This is insanely important – you can have knowledge, but until you know how to “sell” it, you are less likely to break through with your argument.
“It’s insanely important – you can have knowledge, but unless you know how to ‘sell’ it, you’re less likely to break through with an argument.”
And what are your impressions of stepping into the role of instructor and mentor?
First of all – I wanted to get into new roles. That’s how you can learn a lot and meet new people. The biggest challenge was teaching classes for two days in a row at the STEAM Academy. I had a group of ten engaged teenage girls who are very positive about the UX world. I had never given a presentation for so many hours continuously! It was a very challenging experience for the head and voice 🙂 Mentoring sessions are 1:1 work and last shorter. Here my role is more supporting than educating.
Has anything in your professional life changed for you after participating in a UX project for junior women?
Yes. I am currently working on a joint UX project with other participants from the course. Participants – colleagues, because we have established relationships that have lasted.
And what kind of experience do you get from working with Girls Code Fun?
Overall, I gained more self-confidence and saw that sometimes it really doesn’t take much to create opportunities for myself to step forward. On the one hand, the workshop really gave me a lot, on the other hand, stepping into the role of a mentor was insanely uplifting and empowering. The atmosphere at GCF is stress-free, conducive to learning and making friends. You don’t ask, but let it ring out – I recommend getting into interaction with the Foundation. Regardless of your role – it’s an important experience to get a feel for what it is and how to move in the world of new technologies.
