Ngọc Chu

My name is Kim, a passionate emerging graphic designer. I'm passionate about typography, branding, and packaging design. My work blends creativity and strategy to craft visually compelling stories rooted in cultural influence and contemporary aesthetics.

Born and raised in Vietnam, my artistic identity is shaped by Vietnamese art traditions and inspired by the dynamic visual languages of Korea, Japan, and China. I approach design with a multidisciplinary mindset, combining digital and traditional techniques to create expressive, story-driven visuals. My goal is to design with intention by bringing joy, clarity, and optimism to every project through thoughtful use of color, typography, and composition.

Barista / Shift Leader - R&B Tea Garden Grove - Garden Grove, CA

(2020-01 - 2024-12)

• Developed an eye for visual presentation through drinks making, menu displays, and product arrangements — skills that translate into layout, packaging, and branding.
• Interacted with diverse customers and collaborated with fast-paced teams — essential for client communication, feedback, and teamwork in design settings.
• Worked under established brand guidelines while contributing to the café's atmosphere — taught me how brand identity extends from visuals to customer experience.
• Being in a thoughtfully designed environment sharpen my visual awareness and interest in design elements like interior branding, menu design, and packaging.

Server - PHOHOLIC Costa Mesa - Costa Mesa, CA

(2024-12 - 2025-04)

• Collaborated with management to update and improve the visual layout and design of the menu, offering insights on readability, aesthetics, and customer flow.
• Contributed feedback on item organization, typography, and visual hierarchy to enhance clarity and brand consistency.
• Developed an understanding of how visual presentation influences customer decisions — a principle I carry into my graphic design work.

Barista - Trung Nguyen E coffee Long Beach - Long Beach, CA

(2025-04)

• Maintained cohesive brand visuals through organized product displays and promotional setups.
• Used strong attention to detail to ensure consistency and quality—skills applicable to precise design work.
• Collaborated with team members to deliver fast, accurate service, improving communication and project-coordination skills.
• Analyzed customer behavior and feedback, developing insights useful for UX research and design strategy.
• Managed high-volume tasks efficiently, reinforcing time-management skills essential for design workflows.

AA Transfer degrees - Orange Coast College (2020-01 - 2023-12)

Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art - Studio Art with minor in Graphic Design - Cal State Long Beach University (2023-01 - 2026-12)