Nicolas, Senior Bilingual UX Researcher at Bixal: Advize Career Interview

A senior bilingual UX researcher at Bixal, Nicolas, crafts research strategies, conducts studies in English and Spanish, and delivers insightful reports impacting federal government services.

A typical day blends stakeholder meetings with independent research leveraging a West Coast location, often engaging the large Spanish-speaking community.

Success requires a diverse methodological skillset, strong storytelling, and genuine empathy.

While the work offers the rewarding experience of directly connecting with research participants and avoiding extensive academic publication processes, navigating government regulations presents a unique challenge.

The role's most fulfilling aspect is the opportunity to learn from diverse individuals, fueled by curiosity and adaptability.

Entering the field, internships and volunteer opportunities with organizations like Tech Fleet or Code for America are suggested.

A crucial career lesson highlighted is prioritizing passion and aligning career choices with personal values over immediate financial gain, a lesson particularly relevant given their experience as a first-generation college student.

Undergraduate preparation, Nicolas suggests, benefits from a meaningful major, diverse experiences, strong mentorship, and actively developing skills in a chosen field.