Grace Maloney
A designer with a love for solving problems through thoughtful research and user-centered design.
A Little Bit About My Design Approach
Fascinated by the intersection of technology and design, I’m passionate about driving impact, advocating for users, and creating meaningful experiences for real people. Being able to explore unfamiliar problem spaces and make sense of them using different design methodologies and tools is what inspires me.
My design approach is powered by a love for collaboration, a desire to always be learning, and attention to detail. I have a deep interest in working with a team to solve challenges and craft delightful experiences.
And I like to dream at every phase: from digging deep into a problem, to better understanding users through research, to perfecting the user experience, and to obsessing over visual design.
Skills Spotlight
All fueled by a love for learning
Get To Know Me
What are some of your hobbies outside design?
When I'm not designing, I love spending time with my two cats, Norrie and Georgie, traveling to national parks with my fiancé, and working on punch needling projects.
What is your favorite thing about design?
Collaborating with and learning alongside fellow designers to craft the best possible experiences for users. I love seeking the perspectives of others to elevate my own design process and philosophy. To me, diverse perspectives on problems and opportunities are what move the design needle and are at the heart of thoughtfully designed, user-centric products.
How did you get into design?
After receiving Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in Finance and Economics and working full-time for a few years post-graduation, I knew I needed to find a more creative and technical career. After lots of researching and debating, I decided to return to school for a year and pursue a Master's in Human Computer Interaction. Since starting Iowa State's program in January 2023, I haven't looked back! Making the change was one the best decisions I've ever made and I can't wait to see what my future in design holds.
What are some things you love?
Amazing restaurants, specifically: Pullman Bar & Diner (Iowa City, IA), Big Açai (Des Moines, IA), and Dumpling Darling (Iowa City, IA prior to closing their doors and breaking my heart).
Good music, specifically: Taylor Swift, Florence & The Machine, Alice Phoebe Lou, Fleet Foxes, Tame Impala, Foster the People, Maggie Rogers, SZA, and Phoebe Bridgers!
Sweet treats, specifically: vanilla soft serve ice cream dowsed in malt powder, almond cake, and dirt cups.
What's an item on your bucket list?
Own a little beach house on the west coast one day!