When I was in high school, two subjects lit me up in completely different ways. Economics made sense to me — not just the graphs or the theories, but the logic behind how things worked. It felt structured, rational, and I found satisfaction in understanding how systems operate, or how to increase revenue.
And then there was trigonometry. The lecturer didn’t explain it clearly, and most of my friends gave up. But I couldn’t stop tinkering. I kept playing with the equations until I started seeing patterns. I figured it out myself — not through memorization, but by understanding the structure behind it. I got a 95 on that exam.
That same curiosity — the drive to figure things out and feel the joy of learning something new — became the thread that guided my entire career. I didn’t start out wanting to be a product designer. I just kept chasing problems I wanted to solve. Design came later. What came first was a deep curiosity and joy of solving riddles and learning something new every day.
In this article, I’ll share how I shaped my career path one decision at a time — by asking myself what I really enjoy doing and why, testing what worked, pivoting when it didn’t, and having fun along the way.
Choosing a Path in a World of Uncertainty
Let’s be real. Choosing a degree when you’re 17 or 18 can feel like throwing darts in the dark.
When it was time to choose my major, I picked Information Systems — not because I had it all figured out, but because it gave me options, and it aligned with what I genuinely enjoy. I liked the structure and logic of math and the way economics made me think about systems and outcomes. Information Systems felt like the bridge between both worlds — technical enough to challenge me, yet broad enough to lead to business-oriented roles like product management.
After all, why waste four years studying something you don’t like, when you can spend that time focused on something you actually enjoy — especially after all the years grinding in school?
That flexibility gave me the confidence to keep exploring. I didn’t have all the answers, but I had a direction — and that was enough to start figuring things out.
Learning by Doing, and Enjoying the Process of Learning New Things
During university, I tested everything. First, I tried backend software engineering. I liked it — especially the satisfaction of making something work through code. But I also realized there were more brilliant engineers around me. So I decided to try the more strategic roles.
So I joined business plan and business case competitions. I ended up winning four. It wasn’t the trophies that mattered. It was the process. I discovered that I love dissecting a problem, pouring my brain into finding solutions, and seeing that solution actually work. That was the moment I knew — this is what I want to keep doing.
So I aimed for a role in product. Back then, “product designer” wasn’t a title yet. I thought I had to be a product manager. I didn’t even consider UI/UX design because I didn’t see myself as “artsy.” Little did I know that design isn’t just about visuals — it’s about thinking, solving, validating, and creating with purpose. Turns out, I had what it takes.
In my next internship, I worked in product development. My mentor taught me how to validate business ideas. I got hooked on strategic thinking and research — digging into user interviews and finding out what really matters. That internship was only two months, but it shaped everything that came after.
From UX Research to Product Design
After graduation, I took a full-time role as a UX researcher. Product design, as we know it today, didn’t really exist yet. I had a goal: to become a data-driven UX designer whose work was grounded in insight and contributed to real business outcomes. So I figured, starting with research would give me an edge later.
It did. I spent a year learning how to answer tough business questions through research — even when it meant adapting methods to reach users in rural areas who couldn’t read or write. That experience taught me how important research is in validating business ideas. But deep down, I always knew what I really enjoyed was exploring data and coming up with ideas to solve problems, not the process of conducting the research itself.
So I continued my journey and stepped into the role of UX designer — now with a solid foundation in research that became a real advantage. I started integrating those insights into my design process, but I was still searching. I wanted a role where I could bring together my research background, design thinking, and business strategy — and actually feel like I was solving real problems.
That’s when my journey in product design truly began. And this time, I found more than just a job title.
As a product designer, I met incredible mentors, teammates, and leaders who didn’t just teach me how to build better user experiences — they taught me how to think. They gave me a problem-solving framework I could use not just in design, but in life. I realized I wasn’t just designing screens. I was creating solutions. I was shaping ideas. I was learning how to navigate messy challenges and bring structure to them.
This role helped me understand the kind of designer I want to be. And even if I stop designing one day, I know I’ll never stop being a problem solver.
What to Do Next
If you’re unsure about your path, try treating your career like a learning journey. Be willing to test your interests. Follow your questions. Let curiosity guide you.
And if you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality place to start that journey, Asia might surprise you. From international degrees in English to hands-on learning, strategic internships, and post-study work options, there’s a lot waiting for you here.
Written by: Sandya Murti
Q: Do I need to know exactly what career I want before choosing a degree?
A: Not at all. But try to understand what feels like your “calling” — what you want to do for a long time. Then choose a major that gives you room to explore. Test your interests through internships and competitions. Trust your gut — but at the same time, do it strategically!
Q: Is product design only for ‘artsy’ people?
A: No. Product design requires strategic thinking, research, empathy, and problem-solving. Visual skills help, but they aren’t everything — and visuals alone are not enough to truly solve the kinds of problems you’ll encounter.
Q: Can studying in Asia help me explore careers like product design?
A: Yes. Many Asian universities offer programs in information systems, business, and design — with real-world projects, internships, and career support.