Pioneering UX / UI designs for Video Games at Academy of Art
11 - Years ago
I taught UX and UI for Video Games at the Academy of Art University
Once I was back in San Francisco, I was immediately drawn into the vibrant downtown scene where many of my close friends were actively involved in teaching at The Academy of Art San Francisco. Their experiences and passion for teaching in such a dynamic environment were truly inspiring. It wasn't long before one of my friends, recognizing my extensive background in UX and UI design, suggested to the principal that I could bring a new dimension to their curriculum. To my delight, I was approached by the principal and offered a role as a teacher in UX and UI design, specifically tailored for the video game design course.
This was a turning point in my career, shifting from a corporate environment to an academic setting. In my classes, I introduced students to the intricacies of UX/UI design, using a mix of whiteboard sessions, Photoshop, and Balsamiq as primary tools. We explored app design, with a focus on iOS platforms like Keynote, contextualizing these skills within the realm of video game design. The classroom was a melting pot of talent, with students around my age in their late 20s, each bringing unique perspectives and skills.
Teaching at the Academy was both a challenge and a joy. It allowed me to share my knowledge and experiences, and in return, I was constantly learning from my students. It was a period of significant personal and professional growth, deepening my understanding of UX/U
I and its application in the ever-evolving world of video game design.
my first lesson
My tenure at the Academy of Art was a fulfilling chapter in my life, but after sometime, the realities of financial constraints began to set in. Despite the joy and satisfaction I derived from teaching, the modest remuneration wasn’t sufficient to meet my growing financial needs. It was a tough decision, but I knew I had to pivot towards more lucrative opportunities to sustain myself.
Consequently, I began actively circulating my resume and portfolio among various recruiters, all while continuing my teaching responsibilities. My efforts eventually paid off when a recruiter reached out with an opportunity that was too good to pass up. It was bittersweet to bid farewell to my students and colleagues at the end of that semester, but I was ready to embark on the next phase of my professional journey, armed with the experiences and lessons I had garnered from my time in academia.