How creative designer learned to make beautiful digital technology

Interview with Sabrine Lachheb

This is the first in a series of articles showcasing CAWEB alumni, their path to Master’s Program, and their careers after graduation.

Tell us a little about yourself and your goals

I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Web Development , and recently worked as an interior designer. I wanted to change careers, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on what I was aiming to do. I was looking for something that was creative in nature but tied to technology. One day I helped a friend with her phone and noticed how complicated that user interface was. I was hooked – I wanted to improve User Experience (UX).

To test the waters, I began expanding my knowledge by attending bootcamps. I quickly realized they were helpful but not long enough to truly get in-depth understanding. I decided to search for an international Master’s degrees for working adults with flexibility to allow me to be a mom and to work full time while pursuing degree. This is how I found CAWEB Master’s program offered by the University of Strasbourg which happens to be located in the town where I live.

How was your experience at CAWEB Master’s Program?

I enrolled in the Master’s in Web Communication, Accessibility & UX Design (1-year program). This is a very intense program with a heavy class load. I knew I had to stay organized to allow time for classes, homework, projects, full time job and continue taking care of my family. My workdays filled up quickly – my daily schedule Monday-Friday included full day in the office, and schoolwork from 6-9 pm, while my husband took care of our family dinner and bedtime routines.

This program allowed me to not only attend classes but also play an active role on a website and social media projects along with other students. CAWEB website was created from scratch, and we are proud of the way it turned out. Along the way, despite time differences, we worked as a group and found ways to communicate flexibly through WhatsApp and small task forces.

Most of the Master’s Program students worked full time and attended classes remotely. A few were located in Strasbourg like me which occasionally allowed for in-person meeting. Those were rare occasions to get to know each other personally. Many students where from other countries like Japan, Ireland on Brazil.

How are you using your Master’s Degree?

I currently work as a web designer for a company which employs other CAWEB program graduates. When I mentioned being enrolled in this program, it opened the door in the hiring process – my employer had a better understanding of what I could bring to the table and my work ethics.

In my daily work I use many skills I picked up as part of Master’s Program. When designing websites you have to focus on user experience, accessibility, structure and stay consistent across sites – all of these were part of my curriculum at the University of Strasbourg’ Master’s Program.

What do you think about the future of UX?

At the time when many are scared of AI taking away their jobs, I believe UX-related jobs will flourish because they require the human touch, understanding of behaviors, emotional attachment and general usability.

Any final thoughts for our CAWEB Blog readers?

CAWEB Master’s is a great program for those that want to use their creativity and observation skills to understand and improve human experience when interacting with technology. Hope the readers consider attending it in the future.