UX/UI Design Analyst at StepStone Group.
Based in San Diego, CA.
Hi, I’m Jake!
My roots.
Raised in Anaheim, California, I left high school with big dreams and a knack for problem-solving. Excited to start the next chapter of my life, I relocated to sunny La Jolla to pursue engineering at the University of California, San Diego.
My career goals pivoted towards product design when I discovered the field of human-computer interaction. Enamored by how technology shapes human cognition and impacts our interactions with the world, my love for technology was sparked and I embarked on my journey as a product designer.
Now, I’m a UX/UI Design Analyst at StepStone Group, where I design analytical dashboards and data experiences that help make complex information understandable and actionable. I continue to explore human-centered design through research and side projects, building experiences that balance usability, technical constraints, and thoughtful visual communication.
More than just a pixel-pusher.
I’m a designer who finds joy in solving complex problems and making them feel simple. My background in design, research, and computer science helps me bridge the gap between people and technology, crafting experiences that are thoughtful, intuitive, and grounded in real-world constraints. Whether I’m shaping a data dashboard or prototyping a new interaction, I aim to make technology feel more human, not just more functional.
When I’m not designing, I enjoy scoring deals at thrift stores or flea markets, discovering new music and podcasts to binge, working out at the gym, documenting my life on BeReal, and playing Pokémon!
Professional Insights
Strengths
Communication, strategy, and empathy.
What I bring to the team
I bridge strategy and empathy, ensuring designs are both user-centered and business-driven. With strong communication, I foster collaboration across disciplines, making complex ideas accessible and actionable. My initiative and adaptability help teams navigate constraints while delivering high-quality, impactful work.
Design principles
Challenge assumptions and let data guide decisions.
Embrace feedback and communicate openly.
Design with intention, refine with iteration.
Take the initiative to find opportunities for growth.
Advocate and design for users within business goals.
My Communities
Community and connection are at the heart of my love for design. These are some of the communities that have shaped me into the designer I am today.
Product Space, UCSD Chapter
A community dedicated to shaping future product leaders through hands-on learning and collaboration. As a product design fellow, I built cross-functional skills through a capstone project. As a board member, I led workshops and mentored fellows to strengthen their design foundations.
CSE Society, Development Branch
A student-led development branch providing real-world experience through client-driven projects. As VP of Design and a founding member, I helped redefined our mission, mentored designers, and optimized workflows to deliver impactful digital solutions to our clients.
UCSD Cognitive Science Department
Helped fellow students grow as designers through hands-on learning in prototyping, usability heuristics, and information architecture. As an IA, I facilitated discussions, provided design critiques, and supported students in refining their UX skills.
The Writing Hub at UCSD
Enhanced clarity, structure, and impact through one-on-one writing consultations across disciplines for 3 years. As a Writing Consultant, I refined communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills foundational to both writing and design.
