Not everyone gets placed immediately, right?
Not finding an immediate job placement after college is not a sin. It could be the moment in life when you have the freedom to explore a multitude of options.
You can choose to embrace opportunities like pursuing higher education, starting your own startup, taking over a family business, or even embarking on a journey around the world. However, it’s important to remember not to solely rely on your parents’ financial support and probably end up blowing off their hard-earned money.
But, all of us have this doubt, right? What if your moves go wrong?
Believe me when I say this: with unwavering determination and the willingness to invest time in learning new skills, there is nothing that can hold you back!
The IT industry is not solely about coding. It offers a vast array of paths to choose from. Whether it’s marketing and sales, UI/UX design, or other roles, there are numerous avenues to explore. But you should also know that it’s crucial to possess the necessary passion and commitment towards what you choose to pursue.
Today, I want to share a story that resonates with the essence of following one’s dreams, even in the face of unexpected detours. It’s the story of an individual who discovered a profound passion and had the courage to embark on a new path in UI/UX after 5 years of working with his father’s business.
What? 5 years of gap after graduation, and returning to a field that keeps growing every day, with a lot of advancements in AI tools?
Yes, it is absolutely okay for a college graduate to start a career in UI/UX after a gap of 5 years. Many professionals make career transitions or discover new passions later in life, and it’s never too late to pursue your interests.
Here are some ideal solutions for the IT graduate to get started with UI/UX:
Self-Study and Online Resources: The IT graduate can start by investing time in self-study and taking advantage of the abundance of online resources available for learning UI/UX. There are numerous websites, blogs, tutorials, and video courses that can provide a solid foundation in UI/UX design principles, tools, and techniques.
Build a Portfolio: To showcase skills and attract potential employers or clients, it’s important for the IT graduate to create a portfolio of UI/UX projects. They can work on personal projects, volunteer for non-profit organizations, or collaborate with friends or colleagues to gain hands-on experience and develop a strong portfolio.
Networking and Community Engagement: Engaging with the UI/UX community is vital for professional growth. You can attend design meetups, join online forums, participate in UI/UX design challenges, and connect with professionals in the field. Networking can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to industry trends.
Online Courses and Bootcamps: Taking specialized online courses or enrolling in UI/UX boot camps can provide structured learning and guidance. These programs often offer comprehensive mentorship and practical projects that can fast-track your learning process and build your skills efficiently.
Internships or Freelance Work: Gaining practical experience through internships or freelance projects can be an excellent way to bridge the gap and enter the UI/UX field. These opportunities allow you to work on real-world projects, build your portfolio, and learn from experienced professionals.
This is not only for UI/UX but can apply to any domain. Be it Data Science, Data Engineering, Big Data etc. Please note that transitioning into a new field requires dedication, continuous learning, and perseverance. With the right mindset and a proactive approach, you can successfully embark on a career in UI/UX design.
Best Regards,
G Surendar Thina (gsthina)