5.0
(3 reviews)
PhD trained with 10+ years in research including UX research, data science, and evaluation.
United States of America Active this week Usually responds in a few days

Services

$180 / month

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  1. 1 Free 7-day trial
    No charge until day 7. Cancel anytime.
  2. 2 Ongoing calls + chat
    2 calls per month, unlimited Q&A. Replies in 2 days.
  3. 3 No lock-in
    Month to month, no contract.
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MentorCruise summary

Leah is a Staff UX Researcher with a PhD in Sociology and more than 10 years of research experience. Her background includes UX research, data analytics, and evaluation, along with her own transition from academia to industry. She helps researchers move from academia into industry, turn past work into stronger resumes and portfolios, and prepare for interviews.

Based on 2 verified mentee reviews

  • Two reviewers value her guidance on moving from academia into industry and making past experience relevant for new roles.

About

Hi there! 👋🏻 I’m Leah. I’ve been doing research in many forms for over 10 years (academia, UX, data analytics, evaluation), with a PhD in Sociology, and I’ve moved through the messy work of academic-to-industry transition myself.

While I didn't stay in academia, my *favorite* part was helping students try and figure out their futures and navigate the confusing systems of academia and post-grad career chaos. I get that same joy helping people here on MentorCruise.

What I bring to our work together:
-Deep systems thinking: I see how organizations’ culture, policy, and structure shape what’s possible (and what’s invisible)
-Hands-on translation: turning past projects into stories and portfolio pieces that hiring managers in product & UX recognize and respond to
-Equity & power lens: helping you navigate bias, culture, and power so your transition isn’t just about skill gaps but about thriving in environments you belong in
-Practical experimentation: not just strategy talk, but concrete steps (portfolio tweaks, role pivots, skills, mindset work)

Whether you're diving into UX, navigating career shifts, or just need someone to bounce ideas off, I'm here to help! If you'd like concrete support on resumes, portfolio preparation, interview exercises or general interview prep, feel free to book a session.

Looking for more long-term support on research methodologies, career development, or navigating the complex landscape of tech? Book an intro call so we can see if we're a good fit!

What mentees say

5 out of 5 stars

I feel lucky to have had Leah as a mentor. She advised me from her personal experience and cared about my personality. It is so helpful! Leah would be an excellent choice as a mentor!

Rion

Rion

Standard Plan • 1 month

5 out of 5 stars

Leah is very knowledgeable of the field and provided great answers to a lot of my questions! It was really helpful getting her perspective on how to transition from academia to the industry. She also provided great help to modify my resume, making my experiences stand out and relevant. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking to break into the industry!

Shutian

Shutian

Standard Plan • 3 months

5 out of 5 stars

Joshua

Joshua

Standard Plan • 1 year

What happens when you start

You tell Leah your goals. They see exactly what you want to work on before session one.

You meet within days. Leah reviews your application and books your first session, usually within a day or two.

You leave with a plan. Concrete next steps and a weekly rhythm from your very first week.

Start your mentorship