Role
UX Design Intern
Team
Timeline
May 2025 - August 2025
Skills
Interaction Design
Prototyping
Usability Testing
Xfn collaboration
Overview
Over the summer, I worked on three projects for Google’s internal cost management platform, each supporting users at different stages of their interaction with the product. While I can’t share the project details, I can share the skills I applied throughout the work.
In my first project, I focused on integrating research into my design process. I conducted pattern research before designing, and after my first iteration, I ran usability testing and an AI-assistive heuristic evaluation to refine the design and address accessibility issues.
For the second project, I balanced business vision with user needs. I collaborated closely with cross-functional partners to ensure that the designs aligned with business goals while meeting engineering constraints.
My final project was a stretch assignment in the last weeks of my internship, where I rapidly iterated on designs and gathered ongoing feedback from engineers to move quickly.
If you'd like to learn more about my projects, feel free to reach out to me at daling@berkeley.edu.
Takeaways
Adaptability
Being adaptable is my biggest takeaway. Originally we planned for working on Project 1 for my first half of my internship and Project 2 for my second half. However, as the user needs, business goals, and dev team progress are constantly evolving, I adjusted my approach and timelines to meet these changing requirements effectively. After finishing my two original projects, I took on a new design project that came up during Q3 planning.
Cross-functional collaboration
I discovered that clear communication and regular synchronization with key partners like TPMs and engineers are crucial for successful design outcomes.
Curiosity
My 13 week internship was a journey of continuous learning. Other than learning from people that I work closely with, I also connected with many designers across Google's various products and other interns. The more I learned, the more I realized there is to explore.
