Osai Hashimi

Lead Instructor

San Francisco

Osai Hashimi is an experienced UX/UI professional with a strong track record in designing user-centric digital solutions. She leverages a data-driven approach to translate complex ideas into intuitive designs that seamlessly balance aesthetics with functionality. With expertise in user research, interaction design, and product strategy, Osai consistently delivers solutions that align with both business goals and user needs.

Her experience spans diverse industries, where she has tackled complex design challenges and contributed to the evolution of digital products. Known for her collaborative mindset and commitment to mentorship, Osai continues to shape best practices in design, helping teams adopt new methodologies and push the boundaries of what’s possible through responsible, sustainable design that prioritizes usability, accessibility, and long-term impact.

IN CONVERSATION WITH OSAI HASHIMI:

What is your favorite technical skill to work with on your own projects and why?

My favorite technical skill is user and evaluative research because it allows me to deconstruct complex problem spaces and uncover meaningful insights through various research methodologies. I enjoy crafting thoughtful research questions that drive solution-oriented outcomes. Evaluative design, in particular, resonates with me because it provides empirical validation of design decisions, ensuring that solutions align with user needs and business goals. This evidence-based approach not only refines the user experience but also strengthens stakeholder and investor buy-in by demonstrating the potential impact of design choices.

I am passionate about teaching students how to conduct clean, unbiased research following best practices while leveraging AI tools as a thought partner. Research is the foundation of great design, and I love helping students develop the ability to ask the right questions, synthesize insights, and translate them into meaningful solutions. By integrating AI thoughtfully, students can enhance their efficiency and creativity while maintaining a human-centered approach.

The most important aspect of teaching at GA is applying the design thinking framework to the classroom itself—treating each student’s learning journey as a user experience to be understood, iterated upon, and refined. By analyzing student backgrounds—culturally, professionally, and personally—I can identify learning and behavior gaps and tailor my approach to meet students where they are. This means fostering an empathetic, action-oriented environment where customized remediation or learning plans can help individuals succeed on their own terms.

Maintain a growth mindset because the UX field is constantly evolving. View feedback as a valuable data point that refines your thinking, strategy, methodology, and even aesthetic sensibilities. Cultivate a beginner’s mind—this helps counter ego and keeps you open to new ideas, processes, and innovations. Adaptability is key in a rapidly changing industry, so embracing continuous learning will set you apart.

I view my role as an instructor as a reciprocal learning experience. My students constantly challenge me to refine my design thinking strategies, making the learning process symbiotic. By maintaining a beginner’s mind and leaving my ego at the door, I stay open to new perspectives and emerging industry trends. This mindset allows me to iterate and refine my approach, ensuring that I am always evolving alongside the field. Also, outside of Design, I have a background in Art and Education which enriches my approach to Design, and enables me to exercise best practices in andragogy as Design Principles within a classroom environment.

WHAT OSAI'S STUDENTS ARE SAYING...

”Osai is extremely knowledgeable and always chimes in to clarify and/or add context to the question or topic of discussion. She also is excellent at relating most topics to real scenarios which helps paint the picture of a future in UX design.”