When will i find a job that I love?

[Manna243]

I've only been out of college for one year, and I have this not-so-terrible job, except for the fact that it is so boring I can hardly stand it. I wake up in the morning and have to DRAG myself to my office fully dreading the boredom that I'll face for the next 8 hours. I have a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, and what I really want to get into is web development, because it is something I enjoy and I've always been a creative person. My current job as a Information Systems Specialist at a local hospital allows me NO creative outlet what-so-ever, and I think that is my problem. Not to mention that I feel like the REALLY EXPENSIVE education that I am just beginning to pay off (and will be paying for the next 10 years) is going to complete waste. There is no real purpose to this post other than for me to whine. :) I've been looking for a new job with more of what I need to get my career started, but at 23 years old, as a female in the tech industry, with little actual work experience, its SO HARD to even get a foot in the door (no matter how assertive I am). I've heard all the tips and tried all the tricks, and now I'm just relying on the hope that someone somewhere will see some talent and skill in me and be willing to give me a chance. Whoever said the 20's were great didnt have a boring, nowhere job....

[K-Power]

Dear Web Developer-to-be,

In the words of Yoda, "Don't try. Do." Or something like that
Sorry for that corny quote, but it just seemed to sum up what I want to say. Since you're having a difficult time being hired in web development (although you have some skills?), why don't you try mobilizing those creative juices by building a portfolio of web projects?

- Do you have a website of your own? If not, could you start developing one after work/on the weekend? You can base it on any topic/subject you like: your work, your family, your town, etc. That could be project #1 for your portfolio. And more importantly, it's a good way to experiment/hone your skills.
- Does the local hospital you work for have a website? If not, do you have time during the workday to create one? You should get your supervisors O.K. first. This could be project #2. Imagine how excited the hospital would be at your initiative, and how grateful they would be to have a web presence! Maybe enough to modify your responsibilities to include some web development/ maintenance functions... :cool:
- Could any other organizations in town use a website? The local school? Homeless shelter? Any businesses? You can provide them with pro bono web development skills for project #3, #4 etc. Or if you feel skilled enough, charge a nominal fee.

These suggestions are basically to help you take charge of your own dream. If you have a computer, the proper software, enough skills, and the passion you indicate, you CAN start channeling your creativity into web development. Companies like to hire those with experience. With a portfolio of projects (pro bono, paid, or both) under your belt, you will be more attractive to them (and/or individual clients). With your interests/skills, you don't have to wait around to be hired: "HIRE" yourself first and others will follow suit!

Best of luck!

K-Power