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Product Designer, Illustrator & Animator

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I began my career as a self-taught web designer in China, freelancing since 2005—building digital experiences before “UI/UX” became a defined field. Later, I earned an MFA in Animation & Digital Arts from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, where I developed strong visual storytelling skills through animated film production.

After graduation, I worked in both animation and graphic design, including a full-time role at Forever 21 HQ where I gained experience in branding, trend-focused design, and fast-paced teamwork.

Driven by a passion for technology and user experience, I transitioned into product design—earning UI/UX certifications and aligning my skills with modern design practices. In my most recent full-time role, I led end-to-end design across mobile, smartwatch, and web platforms, including B2B/B2C SaaS portals. Following a recent layoff, I’m actively seeking a senior-level opportunity where I can apply my cross-disciplinary skills, shape intuitive digital experiences, and grow as a strategic product designer.

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Education

Master's Degree in Animation & Digital Art at University of Southern California

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Tools

Figma, Sketch, Zeplin, Jira, LottieFiles, Adobe Creative Suite, & Microsoft 365

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Certifications

Google UX Design Specialization

Calarts UI/UX Design Specialization

WORK EXPERIENCE

3.2021 - 5. 2025

UI/UX DESIGNER

Station Digital Media, Long Beach, CA

Led UI/UX for web-based B2B/B2C SaaS platforms and mobile/smartwatch apps. Owned end-to-end design, from user flows to dev handoff, collaborating cross-functionally to deliver scalable systems. Created a centralized UI library to boost team velocity and consistency. Delivered high-quality sales-support POCs under tight deadlines.

1. 2020 - 4. 2024

FREELANCE PRODUCT DESIGNER

Self-employment

Various Clients – Fintech, SaaS, Entertainment
Designed high-fidelity prototypes, updated design systems, and improved user flows for fintech and HR-focused SaaS platforms. Led end-to-end UX for B2B/B2C portals, from research and wireframes to polished UI. Also created visually engaging websites for entertainment and creative clients, balancing storytelling with functional UX.

4.2017 - 12.2020

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Forever 21 HQ, Los Angeles, CA

Worked in a fast-paced HQ design team, creating graphics, logos, and illustrations for apparel, accessories, labels, and packaging. Contributed to major licensed collections for brands like Sony PlayStation, Blizzard (Overwatch), Honda, Aritzia, Bravado, and Moxi Skates.

4.2008 - 8. 2008

WEBSITE UI DESIGNER

ChineseSavvy, Beijing, China

Designed prototypes, marketing banners, and logos, while maintaining and updating the platform’s website for an online language learning startup (now inactive).

8.2007 - 4.2008

WEBSITE DESIGNER

Newsmy Technology Co Ltd. HQ, Beijing, China

Designed prototypes, logos, and animated banners for a consumer electronics website. Also maintained and updated site content for product launches including phones, GPS devices, and digital drives.

8.2005 - 3. 2021

ILLUSTRATOR & 2D Animator

Self-employment

Created 2D animations, motion graphics, and visual development for animated short films, including background and scene design. Delivered illustration, branding, and visual design work for a range of clients across creative and business sectors.

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CREDITS

3.2017 - 5.2017

Wonder Buffalo

Short film

Produced by Shatterproof Films

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Role: assistant animator for 2D animation as part of the film.

View the project

5.2015 - 8.2015

Measures & Frames

Modern Classical Concert

by USC Visions & Voices

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Role: visual development artist for background projection mapping.

View the project

6.2014 - 8.2013

Wonderland Unbound

Projection mapping on building

by USC Visions & Voices

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Role: visual development artist for background projection mapping.

View the project

EXHIBITONS & SHOWS

2010 - 2017

Minnesota State Fair Fine Art Exhibition / Raw Show in MN / Urban Arts in MN / Pancakes & Booze Art Show in MN & CA / Altered Esthetics Art Shows in MN / West Side Music and Art Festival in MN

DROP ME A LINE FOR BUSINESS

  • Linkedin
  • Dribbble

© 2025 designed by Sophie Xing

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