PROFILE : BIO

NYE K. UNG

[nigh • gck • ong]

When someone puts you on a spot, and ask you to tell him or her about yourself, what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Let say you are in an interview, and you really want this job because this company or agency would help you further your career as a designer, how would you approach this question?

Of all questions, especially during an interview, I find it to be most difficult. Not because it's difficult to answer, but because it leaves you questioning yourself in a split second and wondering how you should answer. So, how would you respond?

I am an Asian American woman, given that I don't speak in my native tongue, was borned and raised in Philadelphia. My family came from Cambodia, so I am the first generation in the family among my siblings and cousins. Growing up, I enjoyed writing poetry, short stories and random freestyle writings. I also like to duplicate ZIGGY cartoons from the sunday newspaper at the age of seven from freehand drawing - that means no tracing. Even at that age, I enjoyed the challenge -- which led to a passion for Japanese Anime and Cartoons.

I have never thought I'd become a designer, since it wasn't the furture my family planned for me. Most asain parents want their children to be doctors and lawyers, so my parents were one of them. Imagine their surprise, when they realized I was pursuing design instead! They thought I was going to be a starving artist! Imagine that, indeed.

After graduating with a BS in Design Communication and working for at least two and a half years, I decided to get my dual certificate for web design and development, which I am currently finishing up and can proudly say I know my stuff. A bit arrogant? Nah, just confident in my work. There is always something new to learn everyday, and that is my motto in my daily routine as a designer and as an individual.

Enough of my rantings! Hope you enjoy the read.