Since July—a lot has happened. I decided to take a bite of the Big Apple to get a quick and bitter taste of the real (design) world. Things are VERY fast paced. It was all a last minute decision to jump start my long waited job hunt. I wanted to see if the advantages that were presented could potentially grow into something worthy. Kansas will always be a potential option, but it seemed NY was an ephemeral opportunity. Signs began to fall into place that forced my instincts to go with the flow and follow the path.
My first month was slow in terms of the job hunt, but flew by as everyday searching 9-9pm grew old and depressing. Everyday consisted of waking up early motivated, researching companies, writing multiple coverletters and waiting for ANY response. Knowing that as everyday passed, part of my savings and inspiration began to dilapidate. As September rolled around I moved into the city away from Astoria in Queens, the quiet quaint more residential suburban burrow. It took at least 6 hrs to haul 4 luggages across manhattan by myself. I pulled 50 painful LBs of belongings up 4 flights of rusted stairs, and slowly dragged them 12 blocks through congested city traffic and herds of frozen tourists 3 times.
It seems my old apt. called me back to find work. My first week back into the city, I had been gainfully bombarded by emails, phone calls and interviews. They were for smaller/part-time/internship positions RELATING to design, but the fact that the opportunities came through, it was a phenomenal sign. I started an internship for an artist agency, a part-time graphic designer for an international oriental rug company, while interviewing with four other companies (all with in 10 blocks of walking distance!). It was like it was all meant to be? All interviews had gone very smoothly--and each opportunity was a learning experience. My confidence finally started to pick up, and perspectives began to change. It's hard to decide which offer you are wanting to receive when all the people/environments are all inspiring, fun and rewarding. Fortunately I've landed a very sweet position where everyday is filled with excitement and learning experiences working with MANY diverse/amazing/intelligent/talented people. Working here is FUN even when thy are 14 hr days...
