Melaya La Madrid
Humans and technology fanatic. Lover of equitable access and operational efficiency. End user aficionado and data driven enthusiast.
Informatics student at the University of Washington Seattle. Concentrating in Data Science and Software Development with a Minor in Business Administration
About Me
Introduction
Hi! I’m Melaya (pronounced like “papaya”), and I’m studying how technology and innovation can provide the best human experience. I’m driven by problem-solving, critical thinking, and building purposeful information systems. I’m committed to breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations in the tech. Seeking to join forward-thinking teams where I can grow, contribute, and collaborate on impactful projects.
Outside of school, I enjoy hiking with my dog, playing guitar, cooking new foods, and exploring the world.
Software
Data
Tools
Business
Core Comptencies
Projects
TomoTube AI Reading Companion in progress
Informatics Capstone
We are building a web app that converts academic readings into more engaging formats for Gen Z audiences after research revealed a decrease in attention span over the years and resulting disengagement with course materials. The main goal is to help students complete assigned readings and in turn have better course success.
Lego AI Integration Implementation
Russell Investments International Case Competition 2025 2nd Place Finalist
• Led a 4-person cross-functional team in a 48-hour sprint to build an AI integration strategy for LEGO, placing 2nd.
• Developed a 3-year project roadmap with brand research, wireframes, KPIs, and risk mitigation strategies.
Interactive Seattle Service Requests Report
DubsTech Datathon 2025 Honarable Mention
• Built an interactive Seattle service requests dashboard with a cross-functional team of 3 (data science, design, and engineering).
• Individually developed frontend interface, focusing on clear navigation and user-centered design.
• Integrated a Tableau visualization and translated usage patterns into product insight, enabling effective prioritization and decisions.
• Earned honorable mention and recognition for strong data analysis and clear presentation of stakeholder insights.
Course Registration System UX Redesign
• Led a cross-functional team of 4 to redesign a university registration system, prioritizing UX, accessibility, and scalability.
• Conducted stakeholder analysis, SWOT, and competitor research to define key user pain points to guide design priorities.
• Designed annotated Figma wireframes across devices with WCAG 2.1 accessibility compliance, enhancing inclusivity.
• Defined roadmap and managed Agile sprints to deliver prototypes on time, balancing technical feasibility with user priorities.
• Translated findings into clear design and product decisions, presenting benefits in a final presentation to partners and users.
E-Bike/Scooter Rental Prototype
• Prototyped a rental and campus map app with 30+ classmates using Figma to address inaccessible commuter parking.
• Conducted user research and mapped journeys to validate accessibility and impact.
Recycling Contamination Solution
• Directed a 5-person team to design a mobile app to reduce UW waste contamination, reduce fines, and align with sustainability.
• Conducted stakeholder interviews with the UW Recycling Director; built user personas and behavior models to guide design values.
• Produced low- and high-fidelity Figma prototypes; led usability testing with 15+ students to refine app workflows.
• Presented final solution to UW Facilities leadership, generating interest for campus-wide pilot adoption.