Currently, I'm a Master's student in the Human-Computer Interaction & Design program at UC Irvine. When I'm not studying, I like to play video games, go to the gym, or hang out with friends.
I graduated from The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands in 2023 with a BSc in User Experience Design. This is where I fell in love with UX Research— especially at Crocs, where I completed my thesis project. Through conducting UX research, I've discovered that the most fulfilling aspect of creativity for me is its power to facilitate connection with others.
I'm a dual citizen of the Netherlands and the United States, and a native of Southern California. This dual perspective has informed my approach to life and, particularly, to research and design, allowing me to see problems from multiple cultural viewpoints.
Before UX, I studied Embedded Systems for two years. My technical literacy in Embedded Systems, combined with a lifelong passion for creativity, has left me with strong cross-functional collaboration skills. My core strengths—adaptability, a willingness to learn, and collaboration—stem from a proven ability to maintain composure and pivot effectively in high-stakes environments. In practice, this translates to a research approach that remains steady under duress, fostering a secure and empathetic atmosphere for my teammates and stakeholders.
What matters most to me is living a meaningful life, which is rooted in the creation of a strong community and deep, positive relationships. I believe this is what true strength looks like: a flexible, supportive structure built from empathy and purposeful engagement with the world. This belief is the ethical core of my design philosophy: to create user experiences that are not only functional but also genuinely support and enrich the connections people have with each other.