I hope this is in the right section. I could use some much needed advice. My parents used to own an RV dealership when I was younger and every since then I have really been into camping and traveling. I think about camping and traveling all the time. Well in two weeks I will be graduating college with a degree in graphic design. I would love to be able to work while traveling around. I am single and have no major payments besides a car payment. So I feel that this would be a good opportunity to give it a go. My problem is I have no idea on how to find a traveling job. I would love to be able to have an internet job doing graphic design or possible photography. How do I go about finding a job like that?
It is not uncommon for a college graduate to end up in a career seeming unrelated to the degree. Hopefully you realize that your education gave you insight into research and problem-solving. I know a recent graduate with a degree in bio-chem who is now working as an office manager in a Video Production business (at a very good salary). Along with sending your resume to the businesses on your list, reach out and send resumes to professions looking for field professionals. Sales, auditing, construction design, hotel or business center layout. I don't know where your interest lay, or what you feel your abilities are, but these are just some idea. A college friend of mine started working for Texaco, and traveled constantly across the USA and later around the world. It was a job a family person would hate, and he loved. Good luck in your future, and congratulations on your degree.
I've had 3 careers (fully retired now). I have had a whole lot of experience getting education/training, interviewing, job changing, etc. But no, I've not done graphic design although I am familiar with it as one career was a computer programmer.
It's pretty difficult, in any field, to start freelancing with your shiny new degree. You need to learn the business first (and I know, jobs are hard to come by in this field). I'm assuming you have no experienced resume and no professional references as you're just getting out of school.
In order to start a business, you need a professional website, business cards, and other up-front expenses. And remember, you're not earning anything yet. I'm doubting you even know how to write a business plan or proposal (or, at least have no experience outside of a possible class on it).
Plus, from your question, you have no personal/professional network. So, general advice is to try to work for someone, for some period of time, to get your references, networking, and some business acumen. I do know several people, including relatives, that created successful businesses. But, they were done after working for someone else for some years.
I'm definitely not trying to quash your dreams --- just stating that I doubt it's realistic to have the 'dream job' when you just got out of school. There is that old saw about 'paying your dues' which still rings true.
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If you are good at graphic design... First get an RV class A. then do a great graphic on the back of the RV, You know, that big flat wall of nothing that everybody can see (Consider the sides too) I like a nature scene, woods, deer or antelope playing, that kind of thing, mountains, whatever decorates your float.
Then put a small 8.5x11 sign in the right front window "Graphics by me"
No price, but your cell phone number might be attached.
Business will find you, How much business I don't know but business will find you. Make the sign small, and removable, some CG's will get upset at ANY advertisment
Nothin adds excitment like something that is none of your business John is Near Kenwood TS-2000 housed in a 2005 Damon Intruder 377
You could also consider a national temp agency. That would give you some real world experience, a chance to find out what you really like and the ability to move around since you'll be in a national agency's database.
I am sure if you make a graphic for the rear of a RV and sign it, people that like it will find you. Do some work like that locally, maybe for a smaller fee to start with. Traveling ads never hurt.
Frank
We saw a rig...truck and trailer somewhere that had graphics all over it...beautiful, and noticable. You might want to consider doing that.
I know that many many folks camp with their commercial vehicles, signage and all, so I don't think there would be the "avertising" problem at cgs in that respect.
Dianne
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Thanks for all the advice once again. I have thought about a graphic on the back of a motorhome. I love the idea but would campgrounds turn me away because of it?
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