Breaking Into The Industry

[PoisontheWell]

Hi, I have already graduated from a Univeristy with a BS in CIS and I really liked the webdesign side of IS, but due to monetary and time constraints, as well as lack of experience I was kinda forced into getting a job as a computer tech (BLAH!!) and have been doing so for the last two years. I want to go back to school to further my knowledge of web/multimedia design, but I am having trouble deciding whether to go for the AA since I already have a BS or just go for another bachelor. There are two schools in the same town. One is a technical college offering a two year Associates in multimedia design, and the other is the Univeristy of North Carolina at Asheville, and it offers a BA in Multimedia Design with a concentration in web design. I was just wondering which one you guys think would be more beneficial in breaking into the biz...Thanks in advance!

 

[identity_00]

I would say try to get at least a PT job doing web and feel the market. I live in seattle/tacoma and its extremely difficult.

When you have experience everyone wants the best education when you have the education everyone wants the experience.
Employers are never satified. Even if you know you can do the job in your sleep..there is always a restriction of some sort.
At one point in my search.. I was willing to work for several days for free. No strings attached let me go anytime no questions asked. No luck.

This is why everyone is unemployed, I am afraid.
Hope you have a better story.
best of luck.

 

[PoisontheWell]

Yeah, I am working on some stuff for friends just to have something to put in a portforlio and to put on a resume, but every job opening I see says that they require education...some require an AA and others a BA...I was just wondering in your opinion which one you think would be more beneficial in the long run. I mean I know the BA is always worth more, but after going through a 4 year degree one time, I really don't know if I wanna go through it again...I know it would only take like probably 2 years since most of my core would transfer, but would it be worth it...I guess so mabye?

 

[Ethan]

Stick with tech as you probably can make better money doing it unless you get a large contract with a good company to fully mangage their site and it pays off, but I say tech jobs are easier.

 

[PoisontheWell]

tech jobs are easier...easier to the point of mindless most of the time and I HATE it!!! Plus I work for a college so the money thing...PSHHHH!! LOL I mean not to put down on anyone who is a tech, it is a fine job if you like that kinda thing...me, I like being creative...so,....I can't take it anymore... :p

 

[Spiral]

Good luck. From what I've gathered the only way to get into the industry is to get a job at an already established design company. Starting your own is basically futile.

 

[PoisontheWell]

you know...LOL...this has gone terribly wrong.....haha...thanks for all the advice...or discouragement...hmmmm...or for trying maybe....lol....just kidding, but for real my question really had to do with the degrees guys....that is what I wanted input on...not your opinions on how hard the jobs are and how few and far between they are.

 

[innovative]

I agree with Spiral!! Trying to make a go of it on my
own has been hard. I've sent out many professional letters and
business cards. I get a few responses for quotes (not many)
but that seems to be about it lately.

How are some of you other free lancers doing?
Are there alot of web design projects coming your way?

Thanks, Innovative

 

[Ethan]

Personally I have done three projects, but I am not yet even in college so it doesn't really matter. But joining an already successful design firm is the best way to do it.

 

[jon]

Go for the two year Associates in multimedia design. Good luck.

 

[efriese]

I think it depends on the area your in. I'm in the southeast and I have too much work coming in...if you want to do design on your on, just do it. It's just like basketball, you'll miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

I would go with the AA. I think when it comes to design a person's portfolio and creativity is much more important than a degree. Best of luck to ya.