James Martin, BA (Hons) Media Production 2013

Full Name: James Martin
Graduation Year: 2013
Course Studied: Media Production
Job Title: Lead User Experience Designer
Employer/Organisation Name: CACI Ltd
What are you doing now you have graduated from the University of Lincoln?: I spent 7 years as a graphic designer, starting in e-commerce before moving to the travel industry. Then I decided to expand my knowledge by studying UX Design at general assembly in London, eventually moving to a job in UX at an agency called CyberDuck. I built up my experience over the following 5 years, leading up to the agency being acquired and my position expanding dramatically. I work with clients across Central government, policing, aerospace, food and leisure and more, while leading a team of designers.
How did your time at the University of Lincoln support your career?: Primarily by exposing me to people and ideas. Opening my eyes to design in a broad sense and getting me away from the narrow mindset of what I expected to do when I first started at the university.
What are the best parts of your job?: Mentoring and leading other designers. Making meaningful impact to users of the products and services I design. Working with large organisations. Being able to share knowledge that I fought hard to acquire, and being heard.
If you could give our current students any top tip for after graduation and their careers, what would it be?: Build a thick skin. It’s a hard environment out there. You need to be able to bounce back from rejection.
What inspired you to study at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)?: I had family in the area when I was a kid and spent a lot of time around Lincoln. I love the city, and was happy to return. By happy coincidence, the course they offered was also exceptional in the field I was studying.
What was your favourite thing about being a student at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)?: A localised, campus based experience was u paralleled. It was a warm and welcoming atmosphere. My experiences won’t be forgotten, and will always be treasured.
What would you say to a prospective student thinking of applying to the University of Lincoln?: Consider the tangible roles that could follow your course. But otherwise, I have wanted to move back to Lincoln each of the 11 years since I left, it’s a fantastic place. The university has gone from strength to strength.