I would put together a formal portfolio and if possible get some reputable designers to critique it. I remember having classmates when I was like a sophomore/junior who said things like “Ugh I feel I already know the design process and could do well just working right now, I’m not learning anything.” and many of those people still cannot find a job. I think its heavily dependent on your portfolio however many times you could be applying through a corporate style website that will filter applications that do not have a BA etc. Just something to think about! I like the idea of associate degrees not that I am done with my BA, because I feel if there was something I wanted to dabble in, it could be a great way to do it.