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Junae Benne
UX Writer ● Researcher ● Designer
"As a huge video game lover, I approach every challenge as a gamer, with a goal in mind and ready to adapt to the situation. "
Phone 224-307-0072
Email junaebenne@gmail.com
LinkedIn • Linktree •
ABOUT
The first game I ever contoured my body to play was Gran Turismo. Leaning side to side really helped my Suzuki take those corners like a champ! My racing skills haven’t taken me too far in life. But they have helped me realize that I love UI & UX of a PlayStation. The chimes, the clicks, and the music is very fulfilling and chosen with a purpose.
I started out as a journalist with bylines in NBC Sports & NBC Chicago. Then transferred those skills to esports to write for publications like Wired, Tom's Hardware, and PC Gamer.
During my time at NBC, I was a web content manager using the backend system to write and upload content. This led me to want to design websites all the while writing, community managing, and creating content for the gaming industry.
I found UX Design because I like to help people use technology efficiently with accessibility in mind. I crafted an after-school program to teach the basics of coding and web design to 5th-12th graders.
Now you can find me writing technical pieces about gaming hardware, working on UX freelance projects, and content creating.
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
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Writing
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Google UX Certification
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LinkedIn UX Certification
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Figma, Sketch, Invision
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IxD/UED/UX
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Adobe Creative Suite
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Editing
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Research & Development
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Content Management
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PR
Skills:
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Empathizing with users by creating empathy maps, personas, user stories, and user journey maps
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Defining user pain points
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Ideating design solutions using Crazy Eights, How Might We, and competitive audits
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Creating wireframes and prototypes on paper and digitally
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Developing mockups using visual design elements and principles
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Designing in Figma and Adobe XD
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Conducting interviews and usability studies
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Considering accessibility at every point in the design process
WORK EXPERIENCE
2018 -
Freelance UX Writer/Designer/Researcher
When Geeks Travel, Shopping Buddy App, Marvel Comic Book Selection Reimagined
2016-2021
Project Manager
Xbox, PC Gamer Microsoft/Mixer, Black Girl Gamers
2014-2017
Program Manager
Game On! After School Program, The Gaming Dojo, Microsoft
2009-
Freelance Writer
Girl Gamer Vogue, Black Girl Nerds, Black Girl Gamers, GameSkinny, Tom's Hardware, Wired, PC Gamer
Download Full Resume
EDUCATION
2021
Google Accelerated Program
UX Certification
2018
LinkedIn Academy
UX Certification
2009-2013
Northern Illinois University
Bachelor's Degree in Broadcast Journalism & Communications
DeKalb, IL
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
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Published Author: How to Become a Successful Video Game Journalist & Affirmations for the Little Black Girl in You
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Featured at Women of Esports Red Bull Conquest
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Won a grant for Content Creation from 1000 Dreams BroadcastHer x Twitch
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Appearances: Ubisoft, Twitch, EVO, PAX, Gamespot & Polygon
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Bylines: NBC, Black Girl Gamers, PC Gamer, Wired