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.
I'm happy to share more about my projects over a call. 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.
