A first career in journalism led Melinda Miller to explore information architecture, and her experience at GSLIS helped prepare her for a recent promotion.
[image1-right]Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at Pixo as the director of user experience and research. Pixo, located in Urbana, is a software company that designs and develops websites, mobile apps, and custom software. In my role, I lead the user research, content strategy, analysis, and information architecture phases of our projects.
What do you like best about your job?
Because we are a consultancy, I work with clients from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. I enjoy the challenge of diving into a new domain, learning a lot about a topic, and helping people who have very critical needs for better organizational and communication tools.
How did GSLIS help you get to where you are today?
GSLIS provided me with a solid background to transition into a new career. I had worked in journalism for twelve years and knew I was interested in a new path related to information architecture. The flexibility of the master’s program allowed me to create a course schedule tailored to my interests.
What advice would you like to share with GSLIS students?
Find other people—in the GSLIS program, the wider university community, or even in your town —who share your passions and help each other continue to learn and grow. One of the best things I did at GSLIS was connect with a few other students who shared my interests in doing user experience work after graduation. We created the UX Book Club Champaign-Urbana, which continues to provide inspiration and connections to me and a lot of other folks in Champaign-Urbana.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Aside from helping organize the book club and other related activities, I enjoy getting walked by my dog, baking, photography, and volunteering at my church.
What’s next for you?
I was only recently promoted to be a director at Pixo, so I have plenty challenges ahead in defining that role as it’s new for our company. That’s enough for now!