First Layer Studio
03 / 1:1 UX Coaching

Practical coaching for designers ready to grow.

One-to-one support to strengthen your portfolio, communicate your value, build professional relationships, and follow through on your goals.

Whether you’re preparing for an interview, reaching out to potential clients, or finally finishing that case study, we’ll turn what’s next into manageable steps.

Ask about coaching
Who it's for

Start where you are.

(01)

Job seekers

You're preparing for interviews or building a portfolio that reflects your best work.

(02)

Career changers

You're pivoting into UX or leveling up and need a clear, honest plan.

(03)

Working designers

You want ongoing accountability and feedback as you grow in your role.

What's included

Coaching shaped around what comes next

Whether you need feedback, practice, or a plan, the process stays close to what you're working toward.

  1. 01

    UX Portfolio & Career Coaching

    Strengthen your case studies, sharpen how you present your work, and prepare for interviews. Get direct feedback on your design decisions, storytelling, and career direction.

  2. 02

    Networking & Outreach Coaching

    Figure out who to connect with, what to say, and how to follow up. Build an approach that feels like you, whether you’re exploring roles, finding freelance clients, or growing your network.

  3. 03

    Ongoing Mentorship & Accountability

    Get consistent support to keep moving. Together, we’ll break down the work, review progress, and work through whatever is getting in the way.

Process
01

Find your focus

Bring your goals, questions, and anything you’d like feedback on. We’ll identify where support would help most.

02

Work through it together

Review your work, practice a conversation, refine your outreach, or make a plan.

03

Keep moving

Leave with clear priorities and practical next steps. Ongoing mentorship adds regular check-ins and feedback.

Jacki Torres
Meet your coach

Jacki Torres · Designer

I’m Jacki Torres, a product designer, AI builder, and founder of First Layer Studio and The UX Chats. I bring hands-on product experience and a perspective shaped by working with designers, founders, coaches, and recruiters. Expect honest feedback, thoughtful questions, and practical support grounded in what you’re working toward.

Ways to work together

1:1 UX Coaching

Focused guidance for designers working through a portfolio, interview, or career transition.

Best for · Individual designers

Before you reach out

Common questions.

Who is coaching for?

Designers at any stage working on a portfolio, interview, outreach, or next career step.

Is this one-time or ongoing?

Both. Some people come in for a focused session; others prefer ongoing mentorship with regular check-ins.

Do I need a finished portfolio already?

No — bring whatever you have, even if it's unfinished or just getting started.

How do sessions happen?

One-to-one, live and virtual, scheduled around what you're working toward.