No Day Job, Didn't Finish college, Completely Screwed at 30 yrs old?

Question

Here is the story,

I have had between 15-20 interviews over the past 2 yrs in the Tampa, Florida area, phone and face to face, some related to my field web UI design/development and some un-related just to pay bills,

And I am screwed either way, because either my portfolio is weak or I don't have the related experience/language to get the job or I don't have experience in any other field to start at entry level (like sales/marketing or finance, because I don't have a BA or BS, I am completely SCREWED.

I am painted into a corner because because I only have a graphics background and nothing else, so I can't go into anything else,

I have a 2yr tech school degree in web design/multimedia and a general AA degree(which is basically the 13th grade), I didn't finish BA/BS for financial/personal reasons, but I realize I absolutely have too,

but I can't because I don't have the finances.

No Job, no savings, no help from anyone else, and bad credit

SO AGAIN I AM SCREWED.

Answer 1

beef up your portfolio and resume.  learn some new skills. go on craigslist and get a couple local gigs for web design.  I work as a professional web developer and I only have an AS in engineering so I know that experience is much more important than education level when it comes to web design.

Answer 2

<--- Also in Florida, Fort Lauderdale and feel about the same way you do. Its hard to find an entry level job, that's because there isn't much growth and a lot of companies are holding on to their help because they are on a budget themselves its tough and hopefully not having to lay off anybody in the process!.

If you kept up with web design techniques and technology you will be fine. If you are using old fashion table styling or graphics that can be troubling never stop learning.

Graphic designers have many jobs to choose from  (some require skills in adobe illustrator) :

Web graphics

Packaging

T-Shirt Designs

There are lots more find a niche

I freelance in web design, print design, graphic design, and video (editing, filming). Self taught and use all up to date techniques.

Its not really what you know or degree at this point, just luck and networking. I do wish you luck.

Answer 3

get some self respect, go back to school, and make the most out of your life.  you deserve it.

Answer 4

Something positive - or an option for you. Try out Axia Univeristy of Phoenix online- They can help provide you with grants, scholarships, financial to help get you on your way. Even though a descent job isn't available now, this can help you get your foot in the door. It is great, because you can work from home or anywhere on the internet, at your own pace or choice of time- Education is always a great option, when you need more out of life. Don't give up yet. My hubby is 30 and was in the same position, and was going online and loved it.

Answer 5

You really should stop feeing sorry for yourself and end your pity party.

The economy sucks right now and there are many more people than just you that are in much more serious trouble than you are in.

Since you have already decided that you are in a box and have no options, then nothing is going to come along.

There are ALWAYS options.

1. Sell all of your "stuff". it is just material items and can be replaced. We all have too much stuff anyway. Use Craigslist.

2. Move into a smaller place, even if that means renting a room. I live in a huge metropolitan area and I see rooms all the time for less then $500 including all utilities.

3. Go back to school .You say that you don't have the money, but there is financial aid available and if you take out loans, you don't have to start paying back until 6 months after graduation. Search for my previous answers, I have posted lots of financial aid information and resources.

4. Stop expecting "anyone else" to help you. It is not going to happen, you are on your own.

5. Just do it, nothing is going to change unless you make it change.