Unlocking potential in UX design and digital product management for Hackathon triumph

 

Lynn Teo

Freelance Designer
HEALTH-I HACKATHON Champion (2023)
Completed SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme in UX Design and Digital Product Management
We are excited to introduce one of the exceptional learners from our SCTP programme, exemplifying outstanding commitment and expertise. This accomplished learner secured victory in the HEALTH-I HACKATHON, alongside her team members, jointly organised by SingHealth Polyclinics, GP+, and AstraZeneca. All this, while fully engaged in our SCTP programme. Her journey clearly demonstrates the significant potential our programme nurtures, and her story serves as compelling evidence of the remarkable results achieved through the power of dedication and practical expertise.


Please share your experience of participating in the hackathon with us.

This marked my debut in the world of hackathons, where I ventured with limited knowledge and experience. I rallied together a group of five passionate course mates, all of us keen on seizing this opportunity as a platform for learning. Our task was formidable: to ideate, brainstorm, research, define problems, and transform our ideas into a prototype, all within a tight one-week timeframe.

Undoubtedly, this endeavour came with its share of challenges, as each of us juggled personal commitments and familial responsibilities. Nevertheless, we made time for discussions and worked on each role individually.

I am immensely grateful for the wealth of knowledge I gained from this event and for each team member, as we contributed our unique strengths. This collaborative effort led us to victory in the hackathon, and it reinforced a valuable lesson for me: to always give my best in every endeavour I undertake.

This also demonstrated our ability to apply the course knowledge here, boosting my confidence and certainty in my capabilities.


Please share with us your professional life’s journey and at which point in your career did you aspire to pursue this programme?

I've always had an interest in broadening my knowledge in UI/UX design, creative problem-solving, and innovative solutions. With a background in graphic and web design spanning several years, I sought a new direction that would build upon my previous experiences. When I discovered this SCTP programme offered by PaCE@NTU and participated in their introductory Zoom session, my interest in the programme deepened significantly.


How was your learning experience with this programme?

I have learned so much from our trainers Joshua and Hanson. Their generosity in sharing their expertise is remarkable, and they consistently make an effort to address every question we raise, ensuring our needs are met. The assistant trainers are equally passionate and responsive whenever we seek their assistance. Personally, I believe they've successfully fostered a supportive learning environment where making mistakes is encouraged as a part of growth. I wholeheartedly support each module and highly recommend this programme to anyone eager to explore UX design and product management more deeply.


Which aspect of this programme did you like the most?

One aspect that I appreciated most about the programme was the inclusion of guest speakers in our weekly in-person sessions. They generously shared their expertise and experiences with us, and I particularly valued the fact that they are individuals genuinely dedicated to imparting their knowledge. Many of them also came from backgrounds similar to those of us who are mid-career transitioners.


Do you think lifelong learning is important? Please share your thoughts about it.

I do feel lifelong learning is essential. In a rapidly changing world, continuous learning helps individuals adapt to new technologies, evolving job markets, and shifting societal needs. It empowers personal growth, enhances problem-solving abilities, and fosters adaptability. It also enables people to stay relevant, pursue their passions, and contribute meaningfully to society.