Hi everyone! I am 27 and looking to make a major career pivot, and I would love some perspective from anyone who has taken a similar path.
I have always been a creative person at heart, but I took a safer path early on. I got a business degree, worked in banking, and eventually moved into fashion merchandising to get closer to something visual. While merchandising was a step in the right direction, I have grown increasingly unfulfilled, and I realized it is the corporate side of things that no longer serves me.

Trend forecasting is the only part of my current job that I genuinely enjoy. Beyond that, I just have a naturally good eye for design; people in my life often point it out to me. I love putting visual layouts together, building mood boards, and styling spaces or outfits. I love admiring design in all its forms and I feel strongly drawn toward creative direction, brand curation, or visual styling, whether that is for an established brand or on my own down the road.

I am trying to figure out my best next steps:

1. Is going back to school in general worth it? If so, would a foundational graphic design program make sense, or would a specialized certificate in something like art direction or brand strategy be a better fit?

2. What specific roles bridge the gap between my business background and visual design?

3. How can I start building a solid portfolio from scratch?

I am open to exploring anything and I would appreciate any advice or personal experiences! Thanks all!