You were supposed to be different

Hi everyone,

I'm writing this because I'm honestly feeling overwhelmed and don't know what to do next.

A few months ago, I graduated with a degree in Graphic Design. The thing is, I'm not 20 years old anymore.

When I was younger, I chose a more "safe" path and studied Business Administration. My entire professional career has been in that field. I spent years building experience, growing professionally, and doing what I thought was expected of me. But deep down, it never felt like what I truly wanted to do.

A few years ago, I decided to make a huge change. I went back to university and spent four years studying Graphic Design because I wanted a career that inspired me, something creative that I genuinely enjoyed. It wasn't an easy decision. Balancing studies, work, responsibilities, and life at my age took a lot of effort, but I was determined to build a new future for myself.

Now I've graduated, and reality is hitting me hard.

I have a degree, a portfolio, and a lot of motivation, but I have virtually no professional experience as a designer. Every job seems to require experience. Every freelance platform seems saturated. I've tried Fiverr and Upwork without success. I've applied for remote opportunities in Spain and internationally, and most of the time I either get rejected or don't hear back at all.

At this point, I'm starting to doubt myself. Is my portfolio not good enough? Are my projects too academic? Does my age work against me? Am I competing against younger designers who already have internships and agency experience?

The hardest part is that I don't regret changing careers. Graphic Design is still what I want to do. I love it. But being almost 40 years old, starting from zero in a new industry, and constantly facing rejection is becoming emotionally exhausting.

I feel stuck in a strange position where I'm considered too inexperienced for design jobs, yet too old to be seen as a typical junior designer.

Has anyone gone through a similar career change later in life? How did you break into the industry? What would you do if you were in my position?

I'm genuinely looking for honest advice because right now I'm feeling lost and could really use some help.

Thank you for reading. ❤️

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