Howdy, I’m Richard Tran

I first discovered graphic design in college, inspired by friends who introduced me to creative tools and showed me the possibilities of visual communication. At the time, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do — I just knew I wanted to create. Starting with posters, logos, and illustrations, I built a foundation in the essentials, then gradually grew more exploratory, pushing boundaries and experimenting with new approaches.

My path into product design came naturally when I took a UX/UI class that fascinated me and sparked a new curiosity. What began as a class quickly turned into deeper exploration: learning product design tools, studying user behavior, and falling in love with the process of building effective, human-centered products. Since then, I’ve worked on an array of websites and apps, where the most rewarding part is gathering real data, applying insights to design, and seeing users react positively to the final product.

As a designer, I lean toward a balance of minimalism and functional simplicity, while weaving in expressive elements to emphasize and delight without overwhelming. I see myself primarily as a problem-solver, but one with the ability to storytell when the project calls for it. My graphic design background sharpened my adaptability, enabling me to flex across mediums and contribute both from a UX/UI perspective and a visual design lens.

Beyond building products, I’ve also had the privilege of mentoring and teaching as a professor, helping shape the next generation of designers. Looking ahead, my greatest goal is to continue creating impactful products that people not only use but truly enjoy — designs that improve lives, spark connection, and bring ideas to life in meaningful ways.