Exploring the Future of AI-Native Design
For Jay Harwani, M.S. ’26, human-centered-computing, graduate school was about much more than earning a degree. Through research, networking, and collaborative design projects, he developed expertise in UX, product design, and AI-assisted workflows while building lasting relationships with faculty, researchers, and peers. His experience at UMBC helped prepare him to shape the future of digital products and user experiences.
Information Systems: Tell us about yourself and your journey at UMBC.
Jay Harwani: My journey pursuing my Master’s in Human-Centered Computing was an incredibly rewarding experience, full of growth and valuable challenges. Academically, the courses and state-of-the-art facilities provided a strong foundation, allowing me to dive deep into complex UX and product design projects, like the interactive dashboard interface I developed for robot surveillance missions. Beyond the classroom, I made it a priority to expand my professional network across the Baltimore and DC areas. A major highlight of my time there was securing a research assistantship under Dr. Gangopadhyay, which allowed me to apply my skills to real-world research. Ultimately, UMBC wasn’t just where I earned my degree this past May; it’s where I built a strong community of friends and colleagues.
IS: How has UMBC and the IS Department helped prepare you for your future career?
JH: They’ve prepared me well. I started out in the department as a volunteer; this was a great way to get my hands dirty with coding and Android development. With these new skills, I was able to step up into a Research Assistant role. That’s where things really clicked for me, because I was collaborating directly with research engineers, developers, and PhD students. Being able to work on complex, team-based projects gave me practical experience that directly translates to how product teams operate in the industry today.
IS: What experiences, projects, or opportunities have been most meaningful during your time at UMBC?
JH: The most meaningful experience during my time at UMBC was my work as a Research Assistant under Dr. Arrya Ganopadhayay. I was tasked with designing a military surveillance dashboard for a project aimed at deploying robotics alongside soldiers in the field to assist K9 units. My specific role was to design an intuitive interface that allowed users to monitor the robots’ real-time locations and operational statuses. It was a highly collaborative environment where I worked closely with researchers, students, and developers. I utilized Figma for the core design work and integrated AI tools like Claude to streamline my workflow, all while collaborating with the engineering team to ensure the designs translated well into Python. This cross-functional project was the absolute peak learning moment of my college career.
IS: What tools, technologies, or skills have you used throughout your academic or professional experiences?
JH: I rely heavily on modern AI and design tools to accelerate my workflow and bridge the gap between concept and execution. For design and rapid prototyping, my favorites are Figma, Claude Design, and Google Antigravity, which are fantastic for ‘vibe coding’ and bringing UI ideas to life quickly. During my master’s program, I consistently used ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini to iterate on assignments faster and brainstorm ideas for both coursework and personal projects. Since I also handle front-end development—like recently rebuilding my own portfolio using React and Tailwind, I regularly use Microsoft VS Code and Claude Code to build out my personal projects.
IS: What advice would you give to current or future students?
JH: My biggest piece of advice is to actively step outside the classroom. First, talk with people and attend as many events, conferences, and hackathons as you can. The technical foundation you get from your coursework is essential, but expanding your network across different disciplines gives you a much broader perspective on the industry. Second, intentionally build your personal brand. Having a strong digital presence and a well-crafted portfolio showcases not just your technical skills, but your unique voice and problem-solving approach. Bridging those two things – meaningful real-world connections and a strong professional brand is the key to opening doors.
IS: Which skill or area are you most excited to continue developing after graduation?
JH: Now that I’ve graduated, I’m most excited to continue deepening my AI-native design skills. I want to master the integration of AI tools directly into the UX process to accelerate rapid prototyping and bridge the gap between user needs and business goals. If a skill set allows me to speed up development workflows, whether that’s through advanced prompting or AI-assisted coding and ultimately deliver a better, more profitable product to the end consumer, that is exactly where I want to focus my energy.
IS: What are your career goals or roles you are you interested in pursuing?
JH: I am highly interested in pursuing roles as a Product Designer, specifically looking for opportunities where I can leverage my AI-native skills. My overarching career goal is to pioneer faster, more efficient design workflows. By integrating tools for ‘vibe coding’ and rapid prototyping, I want to bridge the gap between initial design concepts and technical execution. I’m looking for a role where I can utilize this speed and technical understanding to quickly deliver products that provide strong financial value for the business while creating seamless experiences for the user.
To learn more about Jay Harwani and his work, connect with him on LinkedIn and visit his website.