About Me
Hi there! I’m Jenna Silverman, a Product Designer with a unique journey that combines a love for technology with a passion for creating meaningful user experiences.
My Journey into Design
When I was 13, my dad showed me an article about a 15-year-old who sold his coding project for millions. As the daughter of a salesman, I grew up appreciating the value of money, and this story sparked my interest in coding and computer science. I applied to the University of Colorado Boulder as a computer science major, but everything changed after attending a "Women in Engineering Mocktail Party." There, I spoke with an advisor about a program called Creative Technology and Design (CTD). She explained how CTD focused on designing user interactions, unlike traditional computer science. That night, I switched my major to CTD, and I’ve been hooked on design ever since.
My Approach to Problem-Solving
For me, empathy and understanding users are the core of problem-solving in design. I believe that truly getting to know the users and their pain points is crucial. Once I have that understanding, I love finding creative, out-of-the-box solutions that aren’t just cookie-cutter responses. My goal is always to make designs that are not only functional but also delightful to use.
Making an Impact
While my design career has mostly been driven by personal projects, I always strive to make a significant impact on every project I’m involved in. Whether working solo or in a team, I bring an eager and positive attitude, valuing teamwork and feedback. I believe in staying open-minded and constantly learning from others to improve my designs.
What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart as a designer is my background in business, coupled with my extensive travels. Having a business minor gives me a unique perspective on how design and business goals intersect. Over the past six months, I’ve traveled the world, learning how different cultures approach design. This global perspective helps me create designs that resonate with a wide range of users.
Life Beyond Design
Outside of design, I’m passionate about the outdoors. I love skiing, camping, and, most of all, traveling. Experiencing different cultures and pushing myself out of my comfort zone inspires my creativity. I live by the motto "seek discomfort," inspired by the YouTube channel Yes Theory. This mindset encourages me to try new things, keep learning, and never stay stagnant, both in my personal life and my work.