When Ida and Elise completed their bachelor’s degree in Media and Communication, they knew they wanted something more – something more human, creative, and practical. Today, they look back on a year filled with learning, achievement, and a clear path toward their dream job.
From media to user experience
When Ida Ørnes Halvorsen (23) and Elise Gundersen (25) finished their bachelor’s degree, the question appeared: What now?
– I’ve always loved working with people, I enjoy being creative, and I love creating something new – especially through design. With UX design, I got the best of both worlds. I completely fell in love with the field, says Ida.
They had both taken electives in interaction design and got to try designing an app for the first time. It was an eye-opener:
– I quickly realised this was something I could truly see myself working with in the future, says Elise.
– And after a bit of research, I came across Noroff’s one-year programme in UX Design. It was online, practical, and relevant – exactly what we were looking for.
📷: Private
Practical, flexible, and industry-focused
One year later, they are about to submit their final exam project – and both describe their study experience as intense, but incredibly educational.
– This is one of the best decisions I’ve made. We’ve learned so much in such a short time, and I can’t wait to bring this knowledge into the working world, says Ida.
Even though the programme is online, they have received close follow-up and structure:
– The teachers have extensive industry experience and always provide concrete and constructive feedback. It pushes us to continuously improve, says Elise.
Putting the user first
Throughout the year, they have worked on many projects. Two of them made a particular impact:
– We designed a fitness app for both mobile and smartwatch, and it challenged us in many ways – especially designing for different screen sizes while still meeting users’ needs, they explain.
Another project was a dashboard for people with type 2 diabetes. It taught them a lot about empathy and tailoring designs to specific user groups in UX design.
– We’ve truly learned to put the user first, understand their needs, and design solutions that genuinely help, says Ida.
Ready for working life
Both Ida and Elise now have one goal: to work full-time as UX designers. For Ida, the journey begins this summer:
– I’ve been offered a summer job as a UX designer, and I’m really looking forward to trying out the role! she says enthusiastically.
– The most important thing for me now is to land my first proper job in the field. I’m excited to see where the road leads next, Elise concludes.
– Do it!
What is their advice to others considering UX Design at Noroff?
– Do it! The programme is practical, flexible, and closely connected to what’s happening in the industry. You get close follow-up and will finish with strong skills and a solid portfolio – and not least, a good dose of confidence moving forward.