Situation:
I was laid off from my first job just four months after joining due to budget constraints. This was a major setback for me as I had just started my career. Around the same time, my father suffered a heart attack, which required me to stay at home and take care of him while he was on bed rest for several months. The combination of losing my job and dealing with a family emergency left me feeling devastated, and I struggled to apply for new roles.
Action:
Despite these challenges, I remained determined to grow in my career. While caring for my father, I focused on upskilling myself:
- I attended mentor sessions on ADPList to gain industry insights.
- I reached out to experienced designers on LinkedIn for portfolio reviews and feedback.
- I enrolled in courses through Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF) to expand my knowledge.
- I continuously improved my portfolio and resume, incorporating the feedback I received.
I also actively networked with professionals, which helped me regain confidence and visibility in the industry.
Result:
My persistence paid off. Where I once struggled to pass resume screenings, I started receiving recruiter calls consistently. In fact, this very interview happened because I proactively connected with a senior designer, shared my portfolio, and received a referral for this role. This experience not only strengthened my portfolio and skills but also taught me the power of perseverance, networking, and continuous learning.