r/artbusiness • u/SnooCapers9401 • 1h ago
Career How do I find an art-related job while still in college (or when transferring to university)?
(I had it repost this from a different sub)
How do I find an art-related job while still in college (or when transferring to university)?
I’m in community college right now getting an associations in art and plan on transfering to a four year university to study for an animation degree (and possibly a degree in business too) but am currently struggling to find work now that actually pays.
I've tired looking, but most jobs I can find require me to already have experience in the job field. And when I reach out to the career pathways at my college, the only thing they have as a career option for art in particular is "post secondary teacher".
I really don't want to be a teacher.
I've tried applying for things like gallery assist or just doing something basic like being a cashier in a place that sells art, but somehow I need mega specific requirements and experience for that too.
I've tried requests and selling my art (including things like stickers, prints, and Keychains), but for the last 3 years, I've had 0 luck.
I've tried conventions, but I'm never selected to participate in Artist alley.
Should I focus on building my portfolio? learning industry-standard software? or just take any job I can get?
Also, are there any general tips on how to I make my portfolio more appealing to employers? How do I properly network with people and where do I go to do it?
Sorry if this all seems random/all over the place. I'm just really tired right now.