Pivot to UX/UI Design leveraging logic, or stable Publishing roles.

The user, a 23F graphic design major, is burnt out by high-stress agency environments, struggles with pace, and explicitly mentions having "math/logic strengths." This suggests a strong opportunity to transition into roles that blend visual skills with analytical problem-solving, offering less subjective stress and better career progression.

1. Opportunity: UX/UI Designer (User Experience/User Interface Designer)

• Why it's better: This field prioritizes understanding user behavior, information architecture, and logical flow (problem-solving) over purely aesthetic design. It directly leverages both design fundamentals and "math/logic strengths." UX/UI offers significantly higher earning potential and often provides more structured, objective feedback than traditional graphic design agencies, potentially reducing stress related to "making mistakes." Many roles are in-house, offering a more stable and less high-pressure environment than agencies.
• Hot Skills & Tools: User research (interviews, surveys), wireframing, prototyping (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD), information architecture, user testing, critical thinking, interaction design principles.
• Resume Direction: Emphasize problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and any projects involving organizing complex information or improving user clarity. Frame past design work as "solving communication challenges" or "improving user comprehension." Highlight specific instances where your "math/logic strengths" helped structure or clarify a design solution. Consider taking online courses or bootcamps to build a UX-focused portfolio.
• Expected Earnings: Entry-level UX/UI designers can expect $60,000 - $80,000 annually, with mid-level roles reaching $80,000 - $120,000+.

2. Opportunity: Publishing Layout/Production Designer

• Why it's better: This option was specifically suggested by a professor as "slower paced and more stable." It directly utilizes existing graphic design skills (layout, typography, pre-press) but typically in a less high-pressure, agency-style environment. This could serve as an excellent immediate step to regain stability, reduce stress, and build confidence while considering longer-term career transitions.
• Hot Skills & Tools: Advanced Adobe InDesign proficiency, strong attention to detail, understanding of print production processes, typography rules, style guide adherence, copy-editing awareness.
• Resume Direction: Emphasize precision, organizational skills, ability to follow strict style guides, and meticulous attention to detail in layout and typography. Showcase any experience with long-form content or complex document design.
• Expected Earnings: Entry-level roles typically range from $35,000 - $50,000, with experienced roles reaching $50,000 - $70,000+.