Minnie is a junior at the University of Michigan, pursuing the Decision track in Cognitive Science. Driven by a passion for research and an interest in research-oriented careers, she was introduced to UX research by a professor—a path she hadn’t previously considered. Inspired, she enrolled in several relevant courses that she thoroughly enjoyed, which ultimately motivated her to seek an internship to explore whether UX research was the right fit.
Discovering UX research later in her academic journey meant Minnie had limited time to apply for internships. Undeterred, she adopted a determined approach, submitting applications widely and seizing every opportunity. This led her to her current role as a UX Research Fellow at the Center for Academic Innovation (CAI), where her background in cognitive science, especially in decision making and human behavior, proved invaluable.
During her internship at CAI, Minnie worked on educational technology platforms such as Michigan Online and Atlas. Her main project focused on understanding how learners and partners interacted with online course platforms, aiming to identify pain points in the user experience. She conducted qualitative research—including interviews, usability testing, and tree testing—then synthesized insights and helped translate findings into actionable recommendations for product and design teams.As a UX Research Fellow, Minnie participated fully in the research process, from study planning and data analysis to presenting key insights to stakeholders.
Based on her experience, Minnie shares her top three tips for students during their internship search: First, stay open minded and explore widely. Second, know your own experiences deeply and be prepared to discuss your projects in detail. Finally, remember that it is never too late to apply.
