Karina Halphen
karinahalphen.ux@gmail.com
https://karinahalphenuxportfolio.framer.website
213.247.3032
Professional Summary
Certification
Creative and user-focused professional transitioning into UX/UI design, with a background in customer experience
choreography, and brand development. Strong foundation in user empathy, visual storytelling,
and digital organization.
Adept at managing projects, solving real-world problems, and designing for both function and emotion.
Google UX/UI Design Certificate
Recently completed the Google UX Design Certificate ; a rigorous, hands-on program that covers the design process from
end-to- end
Empathizing with users by creating empathy maps, personas, user stories, and user journey maps
Defining user pain points
Ideating design solutions using Crazy Eights, How Might We, and competitive audits
Creating wireframes and prototypes on paper and digitally
Developing mockups using visual design elements and principlesDesigning in Figma and Adobe XD
Conducting interviews and usability studies
Considering accessibility at every point in the design process
Professional Experience
Kayrina Choreography – Choreographer / Creative Director
Oct 2021 – Present
- Designed experiences for diverse audiences by translating emotional goals into visual movement and engaging performance.
- Managed end-to-end client relationships including booking, scheduling, and creative briefing.
- Built an online presence and business systems through website design and social media strategy.
- Oversaw branding, marketing, and business model planning—developing a strong user-centered mindset.
Fliptastic! Carmichael, CA – Gymnastics Fitness Instructor
Feb 2018 – May 2021
- Designed and led fun, engaging, progressive, and skill level-appropriate learning experiences.
- Communicate progress and development to parents with transparency and empathy.
CitizenM Hotel, Los Angeles, CA – Ambassador (Customer Experience + Latte Art Mentor)
Sept 2022 – Present
- Delivered seamless guest experiences through efficient check-ins, support, and problem-solving.
- Applied empathy and active listening to resolve complex concerns in a high-pressure environment.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams (housekeeping, maintenance) to ensure a consistent guest journey.
- Logged and analyzed recurring guest pain points—similar to usability audits.
Skills
UX Research & Empathy Mapping Wireframing & Prototyping (Figma) Usability Testing & Iteration
Visual Design & Branding Team Collaboration Time Management & Project Planning
Leadership & Collaboration Customer Journey Awareness Problem-Solving in Real-Time Environments