My journey starts back in 2007 when I began my Bachelor studies in Communication & Multimedia Design. At the time I didn’t really know what I was good at, except for speaking foreign languages and expressing my creativity with Photoshop. During this time I developed the skills that were needed to craft things, like interactive installations, apps and campaigns. Working as a freelance designer in my spare time enabled me to immediately put the things I learned at school into practice.

When I graduated in 2011, it felt that I could grow more as a person and professional. Ever since I started my Bachelor studies I had the dream of following the Interactive Art Direction program at Hyper Island.

Hyper Island is a school that designs learning experiences that challenges individuals to grow and stay competitive in an increasingly digitized world. No to books, exams or teachers. Yes to real clients and projects, self-reflection, group dynamics and leadership. I was convinced that this would give me the necessary knowledge and skills to lead the change and begin a journey of lifelong learning. After 6 months, I unfortunately experienced a burn-out and was forced to abort my education at Hyper Island.

After a period of recovery, I felt strong enough to start working again. First as a freelancer, but later full time as a UX designer, visual designer and producer for agencies in Rotterdam and Eindhoven. Three years later I made the decision to quit my job and go back to finish the program at Hyper Island. This must have been one of the decisions in my journey I’m most proud of so far.

But this decision was just the start of another dream. I already had my mind made up for my internship. I wanted to pursue my other dream: working and living in New York City. After weeks of hard work, I landed my internship as a UX designer at Doberman. The experience of working with the best people in the industry, mixed with the vibe and energy of New York has been absolutely amazing.