Influential Woman · ProductUX

Nishi Mehta

Product Designer, StudioNM

Chicago, IL

2Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Degree in Computer Information Systems Degree Currently pursuing graduate school in Human-Computer Interaction Member National Society of Leadership and Success

Her Story

About Nishi

I have a degree in computer information systems and a rich background in creative arts including dancing, music, drawing, and painting. I've done extensive performances and dance choreography in the South Asian community and ran a small henna art business, which ultimately led my passion towards UX and product design. After graduation, I worked in fintech designing a wealth management product, and then moved into freelancing, helping small marketing agencies with their marketing products and e-commerce sites. My typical work involves collaborating with engineers, product managers, and business stakeholders to communicate requirements and understand the business scope. I conduct UX research to learn what customers and clients want, determining how the product should function and what features to include. Currently, I'm pursuing graduate school in human-computer interaction. Two years ago, I won Miss India Illinois, which was a platform that allowed me to bring out my talent and education.

Quick Facts

IndustryProductUX
Based inChicago, IL
Specialty UX Design, Product Design, UX Research
- Wealth Management Product Design
- E-commerce Design
- Marketing Products
Volunteers with Feed My Starving Children, Cry America

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Nishi

01What do you attribute your success to?

I would say my motivation has been coming from the South Asian community and being an immigrant from India. As a woman in our community, my drive has been to grow, to be financially independent, and to inspire other women to pursue their dreams. That journey and those values have really shaped where I am today in my career.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I'm still pretty new to the field myself, but having transitioned into technology, I know it can be difficult for women. However, I know a lot of women are very talented. My advice is to be open-minded and don't think that you're limited to one thing. Always be open to learning new things and new skills. It's never too late to change direction. If you find something you like, then definitely pursue that.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I would say the number one value in my field of work would be empathy and having emotional intelligence, because that's the most important thing at the end of the day. We need to incorporate empathy into whatever design decisions we make and whatever products we want to build for the users. It's important to empathize with their requirements and whatever pain points they have. Overall, even in the creative field, it's the same thing. Having emotional intelligence and empathy is how we can create meaningful work.

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