Vicki Chen
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I’m a Website Designer/ Developer with a passion in bringing a brand’s abstract vision to life.”
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I’ve always been into creative arts ever since I was young. Growing up, I took a lot of performing arts classes which led me to become more open and interested in artist/creative careers. Technology was also something that really shaped my childhood. From wondering how different softwares on my laptop are developed to how they were utilized, my mind was shaped at a very young age to view everything in a technical aspect.
Fast forward- I went to UCSB and recently graduated with a B.S in Computer Engineering. While I was still in school, I also started my journey as a content creator which allowed me to utilize my skills in a more creative way and eventually lead me to take on Website Design projects.
After realizing my passion in both design and development, I decided to take a shot at website designing and start a freelancing career.
How do you stand out in your field?
It’s important to me to understand a brand’s vision and goals so I can effectively showcase it. I also come from a very tech savvy background. Before working with squarespace, I was developing websites from scratch and when I finally jumped on this platform, it was easy for me to customize a client’s abstract concepts and develop them digitally.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Currently, I’m working on a personal portfolio for an artist friend as well as taking on some personal projects.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
I tend to gravitate towards either a bold and unique style that really makes a website stand out or a minimalistic design with editorial vibes.
I love browsing awwards.com to find inspiration and always work with my clients to see how I can create unique designs that showcases the brand’s full vision.
For an idea of my design style + inspos, check out my pinterest board.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Since transitioning from software development to a more design based role, I definitely want to get my hands on skills like graphic design & animation which may come handy in the future.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
I wouldn’t say it’s frustrating, but it’s definitely nerve racking to take a step in a different direction and start freelancing. However, I’m also really excited and looking forward to all the opportunities this role may bring me.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Someone who can reply to all my emails for PR/Collaborations or find potential clients would be perfect. I’d also have them help me with tasks I want to eventually get to but never have the time to do (like selling my clothes on depop).
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
I would tell my College sophomore self that everything will turn out perfectly okay. So don’t be afraid to pursue your passion even if it seems like a stretch. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people because you never know who you might connect with and learn from! :)
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
I would LOVE to sit down with an expert in Artificial Intelligence to talk about the current progress in the industry. It’s a field I found out I was surprisingly good at during my last year in College but never had the chance to get in touch with again.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I’m definitely looking to work with clients with a strong vision or brand identity. I’m always open to taking on large projects as well and would love to work with startups or any client that’s looking to build their brand from the ground up.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
I would love to work with someone who trusts my design judgements and is excellent at communication. An ideal job should feel more like a partnership where we can bounce off each other’s idea and come to a similar vision.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
My hourly rate is $60 and projects typically start at $1500. Different projects require different budgets and that’s something we can always discuss.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Don't be shy to shoot me an email at vickiic16@gmail.com or fill out this form :)
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Stay curious and strive to continue learning.
This member profile was originally published in December 2019.