In the vast tapestry of life, career paths often weave intricate patterns that lead us down unexpected avenues. Relatable to many who contemplate transitioning to a new career, this journey has been a tornado of transformation, a transition from the world of fashion to the realm of user experience (UX) design—a shift sparked by challenges, fueled by resilience, and guided by an unwavering desire to create meaningful solutions.

As a child, my fascination with fabrics and colors laid the foundation for what would become a promising career in fashion design. After graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in design from SNDT Women’s University in Pune, India, I embarked on a journey where imagination was sewn into every stitch and creativity flowed through each ensemble. The fashion industry, dynamic and fast-paced, became my canvas as I painted stories through threads and textiles. For three years, I thrived in a world of runway dreams and sartorial masterpieces.

During this time, I had the incredible opportunity to work with prestigious brands like Shoppers' Stop, Rocky S, and Jade by Monica and Karishma in India. This practical experience enriched my journey, allowing me to take on multiple roles such as merchandiser, graphic designer, and illustrator. These experiences, akin to stepping stones, taught me the importance of a holistic approach to design, the power of collaboration, and the art of translating visions into tangible creations.

But as the saying goes, life has a way of unraveling even the most meticulously woven plans. The global pandemic emerged as an unforeseen twist in the plot, draping a shroud of uncertainty over industries worldwide. The once vibrant fashion scene dimmed, and I, like so many others, found myself at a crossroads, facing the daunting prospect of a career pivot. As the pandemic hit, it ushered in a cultural shift toward remote work. The home internet and Wi-Fi industries boomed, creating a parallel surge in remote job opportunities. During the initial wave of the pandemic, I was confined to my home, seeking a purposeful way to contribute and adapt to the new normal. It was then that I seized the chance to embark on a temporary journey into the world of customer service for AT&T at Sutherland and Verizon clients at Accenture.

Stuck alone at home during the first wave of the pandemic, I transformed this isolating experience into a catalyst for change. Embracing the remote work culture, I dived headfirst into the world of customer service. Enter the world of customer service, a realm where patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills take the spotlight. Though it was a world away from the design studios and runways I had known, I embraced this opportunity with open arms. Little did I know that this detour would become a vital chapter in my transformation story.

In the trenches of customer service, I honed my ability to empathize with individuals from diverse walks of life. I listened to their stories, understood their concerns, and championed their causes. Each call, each interaction, was a chance to mend frayed connections and weave trust. It was here that I discovered my innate ability to solve problems and my profound satisfaction in making a difference.

The turning point arrived when I stumbled upon the realm of User Experience (UX) design. It was as though the universe had unfurled a new canvas before me, one that combined my design aesthetics with my aptitude for empathetic problem-solving. My journey started with a Google-certified UX Design course on Coursera, where each dip into UX’s complexities confirmed my deep attachment to this field. I decided to pursue a master’s degree after realizing I needed a deeper education, and Arizona State University’s curriculum was ideal for the developing UX industry. This story details my journey from early discovery to persistent pursuit, demonstrating how unexpected twists may result in significant professional pleasure.

As I embarked on my second year as a master's student in User Experience at Arizona State University, I was equipped with a unique blend of skills. My fashion design background bestowed upon me an eye for aesthetics, an appreciation for user-centric design, and the ability to envision solutions that were not just functional but also visually appealing. Meanwhile, my tenure in customer service had gifted me the superpower of empathy. The ability to step into the shoes of users and craft experiences that cater to their needs and emotions.

Fear followed me around like a shadow as I made the frightening transition from fashion to user experience design. However, my artistic flare came to life as I navigated the unexplored waters of pixels and interactions. The trip, which was not simple, combined all of my experiences into a single thread of development. With each victory, doubts began to fade, exposing a design approach that perfectly combined beauty and function. I understood that each challenge was a stepping stone as I developed empathy-filled designs and problem-solving skills. I now serve as a living example of the benefits of accepting change in addition to being a UX designer. For those experiencing uncertainty, keep in mind that fear is frequently the doorway to amazing transformation.

If you’ve found resonance in my story or if you’re treading a similar path of change, I’d love to hear from you. Share your own career transition experiences, connect with me on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/in/shreya-lokare, or leave a comment below. Remember, each twist and turn is an opportunity to reshape your narrative and embrace the unexpected beauty of transformation.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to connecting with you all :)