# How Maria Went from Languages to Product Design at Conduktor

Not everyone takes a straight path into design. Maria studied languages, spent a year abroad in Seoul, and found her way to product design through curiosity and a love of visual craft.

## Background

I'm a product designer who loves all things art and design. At Conduktor I obsess over UI details. At home I make jewelry and paint. When I'm not home, I travel. Asia is my favorite, Seoul especially. I did my year abroad there and I've wanted to go back ever since.

![Personal travel photo from Maria's year abroad in Seoul](https://www.conduktor.io/assets/images/blog/product-designer-seoul-travel-1.jpg)

![Personal travel photo showing Korean visual design that inspired Maria's career](https://www.conduktor.io/assets/images/blog/product-designer-seoul-travel-2.jpg)

I grew up around a mix of cultures. My mum is Russian, so I heard two languages growing up. That sparked an interest in languages, which I went on to study at university. During my year abroad I discovered design. Korea puts real emphasis on good design. You see it everywhere: trains, street signs, book covers. I had always been an arty kid, so when I started learning about design careers, I got excited.

## My Role at Conduktor

I work with the design team on our platform's UX/UI. We make sure the product is functional, easy to use, and visually clean. Recently I've been working on Chargeback, Notifications, and Alerting. When I'm not on bigger projects, I nerd out on our Design System.

## Why I Applied

I found both the product and mission compelling. The brand is strong and it carries through into the product design language. I saw opportunities to learn from the team and grow as a designer.

## What I Like About Working Here

The people. I enjoy coming into the office and working with everyone. There's a real willingness to collaborate. I've always felt supported and inspired to do my best work.

## Advice for Aspiring Product Designers

There are many paths to the same goal. I didn't follow the traditional path. You don't have to either. Be passionate, take feedback seriously, and keep learning.

## Cat or Dog?

Cat.

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If you want to work somewhere that values collaboration and building great products, [explore open positions at Conduktor](https://www.conduktor.io/open-positions).