How to break into the field of HCI?
Before you make a remark of this has been asked over and again, let me point out that I have done my research -
As a programmer, how do I move into UX?
Getting into UX as a CS undergrad.
and more..
This post is more about how, rather than what. I have read all of the advice given earlier, the most common of them being -
- Work, get experience via internships, volunteer, etc.
- Show Mockups, wireframes, etc.
- Read books, get a deeper understanding etc.
To do this, I am willing to go to a school with HCI as my discipline (most universities put user experience, usability etc under the umbrella of their HCI courses).
I am willing to find a job, internship etc.
However, the question is how?
The links I posted above and others do mention some places where jobs/internships are posted. I can google them out also, not a big deal!
How does a non-HCI person get noticed is the question! Not talking of big HCI giants like IDEO or Frog, even smaller companies are not willing to hire/take interns without a substantial HCI backing on the resume. How do you make yourself stand out to atleast get to the interview and not get scrutinized just at the entry-barrier level?
I can very well do AND have done couple of strong projects in the field of HCI, however to gain actual industrial experience, one would need experience with the industry which would require a job and/or an internship.
Similarly, people who are looking to target HCI for their schooling, would need to know of probably similar do's and dont's so that they can make their applications stand out.
So, can people here who have been through this phase share of how to do it (some tips) and not what to do (we have enough info. on that already).