Hey PC!
So I recently graduated from the Art Institute of California in San Diego, I'm an international worker from Sweden. I've experienced difficulties in getting attention from studios because of my situation. Even though I'm on OPT (optional practical training) for a year from now, studios are not too interested in hiring someone in my position. All interviews, and tests so far had let me to nothing after the realization that eventually I will be in need of work visa.
Why am I posting it here? Well mainly just to get some more information in how things are. I mean I do realize that I don't have a chance against an American artist, but after all there must be some companies that do hire internationals, or maybe I'm approaching the matter wrongly? If anyone has any info to bring light into this I'd highly appreciate it.
Thanks!
Replies
A company needs to do lots of tricks and spend time, money, to get one overseas, it's a huge gamble. And if that person does not bring much more to the table then the local artists, it is not likely they will perform this dance.
What also comes to mind is, when you let a company know they need to arrange a visa.
If you do this early in the interaction, it might save both of you a lot of time.
what about getting contract work to max out the year in the meantime tho? shouldn't there be plenty of opportunities in california?
if there's a legal hurdle like in your case it might very well be overlooked between those departments until they actually start taking steps to hiring you. more so if the company has not much experience hiring foreigners.
perhaps all you need is to find one one that does.
Looking at your portfolio, its a pretty good start, nice work so far. I think you need to keep working on it to overcome a few things that would hold you back even if your employment status was crystal clear. I can get into specifics if you want but it might be worth it to set up a new thread?
Have you thought about contract work? Places might be more open to an international contract rather than trying to hire.
@thomasp - I think you are right, and that's where my issue comes in to play.
@Canadian Ink - Again a good point. I guess I was just hoping to get a easier foot in the door by studying here in the states.
@Vig - Thanks Vig, I'm always open to hear critique and guidance. You can post it here or message me privately, I'd appreciate it in anyway. I don't see myself as a big of a deal to make another post lol :P
The matter of contract work. I'm not sure how that works. Like how do you apply for a contract work if a company is not looking for any workers? Do companies post that they are looking for contract work only?