I've always heard good things about Ansys from my friends in engineering, who've been using various Ansys software for years. My curiosity drove me to apply for an internship, and I was so excited when I got a call back. In January 2022, I began my journey with Ansys as an intern. Throughout my internship, I had the privilege of working with a remarkable group of talented and positive-minded individuals. Their expertise and enthusiasm — particularly in user experience (UX) design and effective collaboration — were truly inspiring.
As a UX design intern, I worked on some exciting projects, like creating sleek icons and building screens for Ansys Discovery 3D product simulation software. But it wasn't just about the tasks — I really got to dive into how Ansys software works and what the company culture is all about. The whole experience boosted my design skills and showed me how great it is to work in such a collaborative and innovative place.
Being an intern at Ansys prepared me for my career by providing me with industry experience and essential skills. For example, I learned how to effectively collaborate with a team, benefited from mentorship, and gained insight into Ansys products, ethics, and culture. Additionally, I built valuable professional relationships and improved my technical abilities, particularly in UX design. Overall, the internship was a crucial step in my professional growth. When an open position became available, I returned to Ansys in November 2022 to contribute my skills and passion.
Graduating from grad school
My work-from-home setup
How I’d Explain My Job to a Kindergartener
I'm like a puzzle maker for apps and websites. I make sure all the pieces fit just right so that when people use them, everything is easy to find and fun to use. I draw pictures of how everything should look, then test it to see if people can use it easily. If something is hard, I change it to make it better, just like fixing a puzzle.
What I Actually Do
As a UX designer, I focus on enhancing overall user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and pleasure of interacting with products, which in turn fosters innovation and maintains Ansys’ leadership in engineering simulation software. I work on various aspects of UX design, including creating components for the Ansys Web Component Library, designing new products, and evaluating user flows. My role involves analyzing user demands, testing products, and crafting screen interfaces that simplify complex tasks for engineers and designers. I collaborate closely with team members to present designs and adjust based on their feedback, ensuring that our products effectively meet both user needs and business goals.
One of the dogs I used to have. (She was the most spoiled.)
Why Ansys?
I chose to stay at Ansys because of the supportive and innovative work environment. The company champions collaboration and continuous learning, which fosters my professional growth. I enjoy working with various talented teams on exciting projects. Additionally, Ansys' commitment to ethics and its positive workplace culture make me feel valued and motivated to contribute my best work.
The positive energy among colleagues and the collaborative spirit of our teams have greatly contributed to my sense of belonging at work. Additionally, the nature of the products we design plays a significant role. Many of these products present complex challenges — meaning that my work is always engaging and far from boring. This dynamic environment not only keeps me intellectually stimulated but continuously drives my passion for innovation and excellence in our projects.
At a Taylor Swift concert in Los Angeles
At a Blackpink concert
Living Our Ansys Values: Be You
I like the idea of authenticity, which means being yourself. This means showing up at work as you truly are, without feeling the need to mask or alter your genuine thoughts. This idea encourages a culture of honesty and transparency, which not only enhances individual well-being but strengthens team collaboration. Being authentic helps build connections with colleagues, creating a deeper sense of community and belonging at work.
Innovation and Inclusion
I love everything about Ansys culture, particularly its focus on innovation and inclusion. Ansys is all about cutting-edge work, which really sets it apart from other companies. Innovation here is about creativity and solving problems — skills I'm keen to develop. Ansys' commitment to an inclusive culture means everyone's ideas are respected. Open communication lets me express my ideas and makes me proud to be part of the team. You can trust that Ansys employees are always open to listening and considering your suggestions, regardless of your experience level. I am involved in our Women in Tech and Ansys (dis)Ability network employee resource groups. Both groups focus on empowering individuals by fostering respect, understanding, and equality at work. They offer a space for people to share experiences, support each other, and work on projects that make our workplace more inclusive. Essentially, they're about making sure everyone feels welcome and valued, and they really help push for positive changes in our company.
What You Might Not Know
I am a dog person who used to own more than 10 dogs at my home in China.
I’ve been to two of Taylor Swift’s concerts for The Eras Tour and watched the concert film twice.
I can eat really spicy food without sweating.
A hotpot in Chengdu, China (the spiciest I've ever tried)
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“Being an intern at Ansys prepared me for my career by providing me with industry experience and essential skills.”
— Mia Guo, UX Designer, Ansys
