About "Adam the UX designer"
My name is Adam Vaas and I'm currently a senior studying human-computer interaction and UX design at the University of Michigan's School of Information.
I'm a hard-working individual with a passion for crafting user-centric, accessible designs that meet project requirements. Since my youth, I've harnessed my innate drive to collaborate with people and create solutions that effectively address their needs.
At just 14, I ventured into entrepreneurship with an automotive detailing business, later expanding into landscaping a few years down the road. As the owner of these businesses, I had the chance to do what I love every day: work with people to understand their needs and craft solutions that align with their goals.
Since coming to U of M I’ve combined this passion with another - seamlessly connecting people with the information they’re searching for. These passions, combined with my unwavering attention to detail and ability to form strong relationships with team members drive “Adam the UX designer”.
No matter the project, my goal is to craft a seamless and intuitive user experience that effortlessly connects people with what they seek. Meticulous research skills, a knack for user empathy, and an unwavering eye for detail are my tools for delivering products that achieve this goal. Be sure to explore my portfolio to witness the results of this passion and dedication in action!
About "Adam the Red Wings Fanatic"
My love for the Red Wings all began when I received a hand-me down playstation with the game "NHL Faceoff 1998". The Red Wings were the best team in the game, so I played as them all the time.
Soon my love for the Red Wings on NHL Faceoff 1998 spilled over into the real word. Nowadays, I closely follow the Red Wings, keeping up with the latest trades, injuries, and rumors, all while watching every game.
Last year I was able to attend 14 games in person, this year I'd like to make it to 10.
Someday I hope to watch the Red Wings play all 32 NHL teams, and travel around the continent to see the Red Wings play in all 32 NHL arenas.
About "Adam the Red Wings Fanatic"
My love for the Red Wings all began when I received a hand-me down playstation with the game "NHL Faceoff 1998". The Red Wings were the best team in the game, so I played as them all the time.
Soon my love for the Red Wings on NHL Faceoff 1998 spilled over into the real word. Nowadays, I closely follow the Red Wings, keeping up with the latest trades, injuries, and rumors, all while watching every game.
Last year I was able to attend 14 games in person, this year I'd like to make it to 10.
Someday I hope to watch the Red Wings play all 32 NHL teams, and travel around the continent to see the Red Wings play in all 32 NHL arenas.
About "Adam the Fisherman"
I started out fishing before I could even walk. Although I don't remember it, there's picture of me fishing off a dock in a diaper. In my family, fishing is a way of life and a its a tradition that's been passed down for generations.
My fondest fishing memories involve the fishing trips my family used to go on. At one point, we had three generations going on the annual "Canada Trip". My family would travel from all over Michigan and meet in Wawa, Canada, where we'd board bush planes and fly into our destination.
Sadly, we no longer embark on this fishing trip to Canada because we've lost many of the people who used to go and it's gotten too expensive. Someday, I hope to take my dad and uncle there at least one more time.
About "Adam the Son and Brother"
My family holds a special place in my heart because we share a very close bond. Growing up, my mom and dad made almost everything a family affair.
I cherish fond memories of playing games on chilly winter evenings, embarking on snowmobiling adventures through the freshly fallen snow, and participating in a range of sports like kayaking, basketball, soccer, and disc golf during the summer.
On the flip side, I also have less enjoyable memories of us working together; splitting and stacking wood, constructing decks, drywalling, and even converting used vegetable oil into fuel for our cars.
Although these tasks weren't particularly enjoyable , I wouldn't trade those memories for anything in the world.
About "Adam the Mentor"
As mentioned earlier, I have an innate desire to assist people, and one of the ways I fulfill this is by teaching and mentoring.
I've worked as a tutor for various courses, providing support to students in a range of subjects while also helping them develop other skills.
More recently, I've taken a mentorship role for aspiring UX design students. As a project manager for Michigan Open UX, I lead a team of UX design students working on a client project. However, I'm not just overseeing the project; I'm also actively involved in helping them learn about UX design and guiding them through the challenges they face as UX design students. Whether it's suggesting relevant courses or explaining how to write grand-tour interview questions, I am wholeheartedly committed to helping people by sharing my knowledge.
About "Adam the Classic Car Restorer"
I've always had an interest in classic cars. The looks, sounds, and speed all bring a smile to my face. One day I heard about an abandon and beat up 1985 El Camino SS that was for sale. Just out of curiosity I went to look at it and evaluate its condition.
When I arrived it was in rough shape. It was 5 different colors, the windshield was cracked, and it had substantial rust. Oh, and it didn't have a motor or transmission. While I knew it was going to be a big project, I couldn't let the car sit and rot further. So, I bought it and began the long road of restoration.
Over the next year I built a motor from parts and pieces I found in scrap yards, bought a transmission, repaired the rust holes, and painted the car. Now, it looks like the true beauty it was always meant to be.
About "Adam the Wolverine Fan"
During my childhood, I was a Michigan State fan, as both of my parents had attended that university. However, my allegiance shifted when I became a Wolverine myself.
Experiencing a football gameday in Ann Arbor is truly unique. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as you enter a stadium filled with over 100,000 fans who possess an "enthusiasm unknown to mankind" for their team.
For me, gameday holds significance beyond the game itself. It's about enjoying the experience with those you enjoy being around. Several family friends, including my aunt and uncle, hold season tickets for Michigan football and other sports, which grants me the opportunity to join them and watch the game together.