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4 - 5 mins reading time
Jan 4, 2024 - By: Ahmed Abdelsattar
Embarking on a career journey is like setting sail into uncharted waters. My story begins not in the world of pixels and vectors, but in the realm of pills and prescriptions.
As a pharmacy student, I thought I had my path figured out. Little did I know that a twist of fate would lead me to discover my true passion - graphic design.
The Pillars of My Past
My journey began in the hallowed halls of pharmacy school. The pursuit of a white coat and a career in healthcare seemed like the only logical choice for everyone, but I knew deep down it was not the place for me.
The courses were challenging, the labs were demanding, and the monotony started chipping away at my enthusiasm.
I found some relief in my hobby at the time, Arabic Calligraphy art, and it gave me the artistic pleasure I needed. It helped me express myself and paved the way for my next step.
I Want to Break Free
I realized I belong to the realm of creativity, not the world of white coats.
The turning point came when I decided to give it a try and get myself a new PC to level up my calligraphy game, then, by time, I started exploring what graphic design can offer me.
Nights that were once spent pouring over pharmaceutical texts transformed into sessions with design software. I devoured tutorials, practiced tirelessly, and discovered a canvas of endless possibilities.
Design wasn't just a career; it was a form of self-expression, a way to bring imagination to life.
Navigating the Learning Curve
The shift from pharmacy to graphic design was no smooth sail. I faced a steep learning curve, juggling design principles, software intricacies, and a new vocabulary that included terms like RGB, vector, and kerning.
But with each challenge came a lesson, and with each lesson, I grew. The pixels on my screen became stepping stones towards a new horizon.
Designing My Destiny
The decision to change my career trajectory wasn't just about learning new skills; it was about redesigning my destiny.
I could not let life steer me into a road I do not want, I had to do whatever it takes to craft my future like I craft my designs.
Though the road was not clear, and I had no idea what could I do after learning the software, what would be the next step, yet I embraced the uncertainty, traded pill bottles for Pantone swatches, and ventured into the world of design with a heart full of passion.
The thrill of creating something from scratch, of turning a blank canvas into a visual story, was intoxicating.
Lessons from the Transition
I had the doubt, Would I be accepted in a world dominated by creative minds? Would my pharmacy background be a hindrance or a unique perspective?
Through these uncertainties, I discovered resilience. The ability to adapt, to learn from failures, and to turn challenges into stepping stones became my greatest assets, and soon enough I was able be a part of the world of creators and prove my capabilities and skills to be reliable.
A Palette of Possibilities
Graphic design is more than just a career for me; it's a palette of possibilities waiting to be explored. A room without a roof for me to grow, experiment, learn and also teach.
From logo designs that tell a brand's story to animations that bring ideas to life, I found my niche in the vibrant and ever-evolving world of visual communication. And here I am finally, feeling I am in the place I should be in.
My journey from pharmacy student to graphic designer is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the courage to embrace change.
It's never too late to pivot, to reinvent oneself. As I navigate this new career sea, I carry with me the lessons of my past and the excitement of an artist discovering a blank canvas. The pixels may be small, but the possibilities are infinite.
Endnote
If you're considering a career change, remember that the journey might be uncertain, but the destination is worth the voyage.
Embrace the challenges, learn from every experience, and don't be afraid to paint outside the lines. Your story is unique, and the canvas of your career is waiting for your brushstroke.
Senior Multi-Disciplinary Designer | I help business owners achieve their goals with the right visual solutions and share my experience with junior designers
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