So I don't know about you, but one of my biggest
fears about graduation is job hunting. I know we're pretty lucky because we
have so many connections through the program and always getting emails about
job opportunities and such, but if you're not planning on staying in Philly or
even PA, such as myself, it's a little scarier going out there where the
connections become fewer.
I've been doing research about the graphic
design job market in different states and cities, particularly on the east
coast. Here are some shitty looking maps I found that actually have some good
info. They are from 2013, but I don't think things have changed too, too much
since then and can still give you a general idea about jobs.
One of the biggest things to consider is the
amount of job opportunities in an area, because as much as you may love the
Dakotas, it’s not exactly a hot spot of graphic design at the moment.
Another big part is wage. And I mean, there’s a
give and take to how much you’re willing to accept based on who would be
working for, where it is, and the type of work you’d be doing. But it is a big
thing to consider since different areas have different wages and different
costs of living.
To wrap this thing up, there’s a lot of factors
to consider when deciding where to live/work and what I can tell is that, if
you keep your options open and abundant, use the resources and connections we
have, and just apply and put your name out there too as many people as you
want, you will find a job and city that will make you happy.
Nichole –
ReplyDeleteGreat use of statistics to explore your topic – it’s great that you are looking at expanding your geographical horizons for your future career. There are many unexpected places where the design industry is blooming, and there are definitely some areas of the country to be avoided if you want to earn a fair wage.
Some tips on writing style:
- Avoid using casual language such as “So I don’t know about you”, “shitty looking”, “too, too much”, “And I mean”, “to wrap this thing up”. You don’t have to be super formal with blog writing, but it should sound somewhat professional so that readers focus on the ideas instead of the language.
- Most of your writing seems pretty general; I would focus on specific pieces of the data that you find relevant. For example, it is worth noting that New England tends to pay graphic designers more than the Midwest, but the cost of living may be high enough that you’ll fare better moving to Minnesota or Illinois.
- Focus on ways you can make your writing flow better with punctuation and interesting words. Here is a suggestion for re-writing the last paragraph:
“(There are many) factors to consider when deciding where to (move for your career). (From what I have researched), (you should) keep your options open and abundant, use the resources and connections (you) have, and (keep putting your name out there). (Hopefully), you will find a job and a city that will make you happy.”