I graduated back in 2018, since then I've applied to studios like Titmouse or Frederator, and small animation studios as a character designer. The most I've gotten to do is become a cartooning teacher for an afterschool program . You need experience with years of sketch, figma and maya apparently, just to even have a view of your CV in my experience. I'm not gonna stop drawing, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disheartened by now
Yea I feel you. I graduated around 2015 and was only getting unpaid or very low paying freelance positions. 😣 I don't think my parents were supportive cause when I tried looking for other jobs for a more secure finance, they recommend the military. Didn't really want to go but it felt like they were pressuring me to go and unfortunately I couldn't quit til later. Now I'm working in a warehouse which is good pay and great work environment, but I still want to be an artist for a living. 😢
I graduated from an Art and Design college back in July of 2022, and after spending the remainder of my Summer resting, I decided to apply for a job. I was trying to get a job working as an illustrator and graphic designer, but unfortunately nobody would hire me. I applied to dozens of places, nobody replied back or wanted to hire me. Eventually, in November I buckled down and began working as a carpenter, at the same company as my dad. Needless to say, I don't like it. But the payment is good, and hopefully I can accumulate enough money to finally move out and work someplace else. Unfortunately, my job is from 8 to 5, not helped by the all the housework I have to do when I get back. This barely leaves much time work on my art, as I feel too bored or exhausted to do anything. I'm doing the best I can, from bringing my sketchbook to work and practice whenever I have spare time, to listening to various artists on RUclips so I can follow their advice, to learning how to turn my art into a business and maybe work freelance. I just hope I can make it someday.
I'm also at the same position as you 😢 Graduated in Visual Arts on May 2022, had a mental breakdown because I felt like I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and how to get a job at the art industry in general (because just applying was not working). Then decided to work as a part-time cashier at a market and I'm still there 🤡 lol Still have no idea, but what comforts me is that sometimes it be like that, it takes time to land jobs and even so to discover what kind of job you truly like to do. Even if I hate being a cashier, it's an experience that made possible for me to truly understand what I like and don't in a workplace or activities for example. Whenever I can I'll try to study more about design, illustration and apply for other jobs related to art, but yeah it's really hard to manage this with a job because I feel like I have no energy left to do anything at all lol But I hope we both find our way into the art industry!
I graduated in 2020 and I've been applying for stuff for over the years. Being consistent with yourself and building a routine definitely helps. Don't give up you got this!
Thank you for sharing your story. I'm sorry to hear you're not exactly where you'd like to be in your artistic career endeavors just yet, but the effort you put to find time to create art in those tiny moments you manage to do so will matter a lot. I think even if the job may be exhausting / boring, I think it is still smart to maintain some financial stability so that when the time comes where you do land an art career, you won't have as much of a financial burden to distract you. I think you are doing great from what you have shared thus far, and that your consistency in working on your art on your spare time while educating yourself is very admirable and will get you somewhere as long as you don't give up. I wish you the best!
Thank you for sharing your experience! I think your mindset is really great in that it is definitely important to have experiences in jobs to just know what it is you DON'T want to do. I'm also glad to hear you are continuing to learn more about design and illustration as well, and not giving up on finding an art job. While it definitely is exhausting, I hope your continued efforts eventually land you somewhere in the art industry!
@@mewTripled Thanks a lot, Michelle! 💖❤️💖 Your videos are also helping me a lot with getting in touch with art and the art industry even though I'm not from USA (I'm brazilian). I'm really grateful for your content and for you being so open to talk about your process of being an artist!
Definitley would love to hear more about how the interview process happens and the rejection letters! Really glad you're putting out all this important information especially as a freshman animation student!
The point of making a new portfolio is so important! I'm working on my graduation film right now and while thinking about the concept I had a strong pressure that it also has to be suitable for my portfolio, I got over it and I'm making something truly for myself. Not everything that you do in school has to be in your portfolio, just assume that you will start a new one after graduation, it will help a lot:)
i'm coming up on one year post-graduation and have still been dealing with this. there are days when i'm just thankful for the little bit of work i've gotten, but sometimes it's hard to stay motivated after all the other rejections. it's nice to hear someone put to words what i've been thinking. thanks for the video!
I will say, I truly wish I had this video or had more of these kinds of access when I was graduating. All of this was solid advice that unfortunately was not provided to students before being shunned out into the job hunting world and I was SO discouraged, depressed, and struggled badly for 5 years after graduating before finally landing my first animation job. (and then struggled some more after layoffs but with a 'bit' less stress) I am truly grateful to have my dream career now but looking back, we really dont prepare our students well enough for the job hunt. We focus so much on the 'portfolio' side of things we neglect the business side of knowing our worth for salary, the emotional battle dealing with rejections, and where to find community to help each other. Thank you SO MUCH Michelle for this video and I wish the best of luck and comfort to everyone on this journey!
They don’t really want to tell anyone that though, because if they did, I guarantee you the department would have a lot of dropouts and it would end up losing funding, as if funding wasn’t already a big enough issue.
@@Darknight0681 I would disagree. I think more of these conversations would improve dropout rates as well as grads finding a job sooner. my undergrad did not prepare any of their students, but my one year post grad surely did. They had an entire class dedicated to teaching us how to find studios, to salary talk, to how to network. My prof even went so far as to teach us budgeting. I believe it truly depends on departments changing and improving their curriculums to be up to speed with modern times and fully preparing us as 'working adults' and not just 'a student'
I’ve been working off and on in the animation industry for a little over 10 years now and this video is extremely accurate about what it’s like to be an animator in the US. Wish this kind of content existed when I started out as well as during my first layoffs. Everybody finds ways to make ends meet one way or another between projects and learning that balancing act is a key factor while working as an artist. I personally only do freelance animation presently and I was able to do that thanks to connections I got through the years I spent working in a studio. The key is to get many people to know you, your work, and your work ethic as quickly as possible (which is why workshops and classes are better than conventions). Because those people wander off between gigs as well and if they see an opening on their new project that they think your work will be a good for, your name will get tossed around to producers who will then reach out to you. I get emails from past crew members asking if I’m available for work about once or twice a year now. Some years I have no contact at all and other years I had multiple people contact me during the SAME WEEK for different projects. The ebb and flow is real. Best of luck to everyone who is currently job hunting!
Just wanna mention I got a job in my field (vfx animation) right after i graduated but was laid off three years later. but i have to say even though i had to switch to a non-artistic career i still don’t think my degree in art is a waste because there are so many principles i learned for life in general and i was always able to add art to whatever role i ended up with even if it was something small like getting my manager to give me hours to make a team mascot or making a pretty poster or whatever
Thanks for sharing your story, I definitely agree an art degree can still be so useful for many, and the act of going through the motion of art school is a learning experience in itself.
I think aside from the fact that students and graduates can have a rough time getting into jobs, which often have very high expectations, there are simply not enough entry-level positions. I think the art industry has been gaining a lot of traction as of late with more and more people going to art school, it's becoming quite a competitive environment. I think all the points you have offered are definitely valid but I do wish studios or companies would be more willing to hire entry level positions.
As a sophomore in art school, this is really helpful! I hadn't actually thought what it would be like after graduating, graduation was always the goal. More videos like this would be great!
Im currently in tech college for Digital Media Design, Im in the animation side of things. Currently working at a printing shop, print logos on shirts, pants/ laser engraving mugs, knives and other stuff. Its pretty cool, the pay is ok, but I do hope to get into an animation career in the future. Currently building a website from scratch, in wordpress/divi, so I can make a beautiful portfolio. Whats cool about the school Im in is they teach so much more than whats taught at the university I live at. I got to do Video editing, Storyboarding, Graphic Design, Social Media Marketing, Animations, Photography, 3D modeling, Website Building, etc. They also have been showing us how to use etsy and other print on demand shops effectively. I honestly can't wait for what the future holds.
you need experince to get experince to get an entry level position that requires more work experience enven though yes, you spent a lot of time and money to get the 4+ years of experience and training... I work in apparel design and I just went to a studio to intern for 3 months than got themp work for about 3 years before getting the job that I have now... that can let anyone go at any time. its the way the world is moving towards.
i have been applying for animation jobs for 8 months now and nothing... right now I stopped working on retail to work and focus on portfolio to have more to show to the few companies hiring now... thank you so much for this video, it seems like you read my mind sometimes. the problem is to pay rent while working on portfolio and trying to do online short courses... but it is a good idea to build connections! Michelle youre definitely one of the best art channels here on youtube that helps me to keep motivated and keep going. thank you so much
I feel so lucky to have stumbled across your channel and art, I'm currently a junior in animation and was admittedly feeling very anxious and doubtful about myself and future career. Thank you so much for all the valuable advice you put out for everyone, I think a video on rejections/reasons behind them that you mentioned would be very insightful as well:)
Graduated 2019 and started my career last year in 2022 as a 3D game artist for a Sony studio. Mew is hella right, keep busy, keep making new portfolios, keep applying. And don't be too proud to work a 9-5 because when you get home you work your 5-11 and get your art career off the ground. I haven't had my first layoff yet, I'm a permanent and I've seen people retire from here. So I might just be lucky. But either way I still work on my portfolio and I still keep building relationships because you never know if you just want to jump on another project yourself.
I graduated May 2021 and after seeing the job market not look good in the u.s i decided to broaden my horizons and look for jobs internationally. I am currently on my second year working as a 3d artist in japan, best decision for early career development.
After graduating I struggled to find a job, barely got by because of a friend recommending me for a retail job. Quit that job due to a number of reasons, and now it’s been months since I’ve found work. I’ve applied for all sorts of things, in publishing, in museums working at the front desk, editor positions, etc. All either swift rejections or drawn out ghosting which by this point I’ve basically considered to be a rejection. It’s been the darkest time of my life, with my mom pushing me to get a “government job” for more stability. At this point, I’m at a low I’ve never known before and it’s taking it’s toll greatly, too many nights filled with tears. It feels like my dream doesn’t even want me at this point.
Not graduating this year, but finishing my first year! I feel like this is still a good video to watch, as it can help me prepare better for the future! If I start working to building my portfolio and start applying to internships and small jobs now, by the time I graduate I'll be prepared for the battle ground the industry is! Great video!
I’m interested in hearing more about how you search for jobs now since you’re a professional storyboard artist. Do you have certain criteria that you’re looking for when you want to apply for a position. I’m interested in the rejection letters too. Thank you for being open with us and sharing your experiences.
That would be a great video idea I've love to talk / share more about. It's definitely much different compared to job hunting with 0 job experience in the art / animation industry for sure, so thank you!
I'm glad you didn't say getting an Art degree was a mistake.I got an AA now working on a BA and kinda don't know what to major in anymore.A part of me still wants to do TV then a part of me feels like I should take a gaming class.
I graduated back in 2016 with a BFA in illustration. I've struggled to even get internships, and now I feel too old to even break into the industry; I'm 28. I was so close to getting an internship in Tokyo at a foreign owned animation studio and was eventually denied because they stated they couldn't teach me animation. Do companies like this not need... illustrators? Either way, after years of being unable to even intern, I started working in customer service. :( I think I applied to over 100 companies at one point. I just gave up after 7 years. It's also disheartening to see someone with your same skill working in the industry but you aren't.
currently also dealing with this, with almost one year post grad and not finding a job :"l i also feel like the animation industry right now is experiencing a slump, theres not a ton of stuff being made and i see so many people out of work and posting job searching posts
I graduated just yesterday, this is good timing lol. I’m nervous about what will happen, but I want to be optimistic and work hard. Thanks for the info!
I graduated with a drawing degree and it was absolute hell looking for a job-art related or a "normal 9-5." I didn't know if I wanted ot work for an art company-and I still don't know if I'd want to be an artist for a company. Thankfully I got a job now, so I don't have to stress too much about money. Now my next item to tackle is finding groups to continue my art in so I don't lose that skill!
I just wanna be able to move out of my parents' house... with prices nowadays I feel I can't do that without a full-time job - if I got a full-time job in something other than art, I'd have no time or energy to work on my skills and portfolio to land a full-time job in art - so I have to do part-time work and spend the rest of my time studying and brushing up my skills - it's kinda like a vicious circle, y'know?
It's wild how the industry is so hard to get into. All the obstacles and hurdles you have to jump just to secure a job and even then job security isn't promised. I too graduated in 2018, I had disciplines in New Media, English and Info Systems. New Media for editing and art, English for story writing, and Info Systems for my knowledge in computers. You'd think I'd be able to find a plethora of jobs but nope. I was originally gonna move to L.A. In order to be closer to the industry but had no money. So I got a job where I live and hoped to save up and move. Then COVID happened and kinda screwed with my plans. I don't think it's a total waste though. Last year alone WBD, Disney, and other companies laid off a lot of people from streaming jobs, especially the animation division. Not saying I would've gotten something but I could've been 1 of thousands that got laid off just to return home in shame. Since COVID, I've gotten my CDL and are focusing on other avenues to accumulate income in order to pursue my dream and not go broke doing it. I'm learning more and more everyday that this industry is way unpredictable and a plan B-Z should be in place if your first plan doesn't work. Good luck to everyone pursing animation, who knows what the future holds.
I graduated from an Animation & Illustration degree back in 2016, went back and did a Masters on the same course in 2018. Came out with top marks both times and have tried countless times to get somehwere I'd like be. I started with animation studios like Titmouse, Sun & Moon, The Line and a bunch of other but never heard anything. I tried looking at Art/Character Design instead but never heard back again. All the places (even entry level, no joke) were looking for at least 4 years of experience and I doubt my CV and reels even got a look-in. I work in a pub now. I still draw and animate between shifts, on my own personal projects, to put together a new portfolio and I do think I'm much better than I used to be, because the feeling of creating something, ANYTHING helps, but I often feel like I've stalled completely. Rejections don't bother me as much as they used to but it's the thought of never being thats worse, especially now I'm 29. I know I'm CERTAINLY not the only one and I can only keep moving forward
Earlier in the semester, I was really anxious about being jobless in the future. I wanted to focus on perfecting my portfolio and resume to try and land an art job. But seeing how rocky the industry is, I have to come to the conclusion that that's just not realistic to get in right away. I am still pursuing storyboarding as a career and finishing school strong. I will still look for art jobs. But in the mean time, I also have to swallow my pride for a bit and start working with my mom at the hospital first, just to get something stable on my belt, while applying to different studios. Good luck everyone, it's a tough world out there!
It's easy to not be accepted into movie industries, movies are supposed to be viewed as a perfect imaginative spectacle and they need specific artists and employees. I wish I could give your past self a hug👍
I graduated in December and I am so nervous! I’ve been rejected by a lot of art jobs but I landed a graphic design job! Not exactly what I want to do but it’s a step! Working with great people and it’s pretty good! Hope to learn more skills and build a new portfolio! With more time for me I hope to work on my art and grow as an artist! Thank you for this! I was looking a for vids of post art college life. Ty for posting this at the right time! 🥺♥️
I greatly appreciate your insight as a professional. This especially rings true as I've been through years of schooling and have gone through this exact situation, only to be sacked from my first job for not being experienced enough. As I'm going through art education a second time, the thought of reliving this looms over my mind constantly, but it eases me a bit to know this happens even at more experienced levels and can be overcome. I think the important thing is to always be finding a way to fulfill your passion, and keep doing what you can to achieve happiness. I hope you'll find your next big gig soon mew, until then keep on drawing and creating ✌
Graduated in 2020. Did the networking thing, went to so many industry events through 2018-2019 to prep. Haven't had a SINGLE gig, not even an interview, even when i tried to lean on my "industry" connections! One dude who empathized with me on being laid off together when I was laid off from my day job last winter. That guy had another animation job within 5 days, I've been unemployed for 6 months!!! Life is a kick in the ass, and sure, every closed door leads you down the hall to the right open one, but this industry feels more like a funhouse maze in the dark than any sensible thing sometimes. Like, it seems everyone's frustrated with the industry right now; current artists getting laid off, other artists frustrated with working conditions, (DW seems to have frequent complaints) to the point that it seems like ani twt was talking all about the absolute lack of projects that are hiring, probably due to the recession. Hopefully we all get lucky next project season? I've looked up to you & your journey since 2018 and it's a fucked up world that you're at the moment just as unemployed as me, but in this moment I feel the brotherhood of struggling, frustrated artists. Thank you again for being so transparent about your experiences, for the educational purposes and empathy for us, your peers.
Thank you for this video. I do not have an Art background for my studies but the feeling of applying, waiting and often getting rejected is so familiar. I feel we (fresh grads) are not prepared enough for the job market in general. But it's great that you had feedback from some companies at least! I would love to see the process as well 😊
This video is really helpful! I graduated a couple months back and just been frustrated that I haven’t been getting my foot in the door to work. So I decided to re-work my portfolio and study my fundamentals again
idk why i even watched this lol I dropped out of a bio med program, now i aspire to be a writer/artisit/creator but i doubt i'll ever have the opportunity to go any school ever again, im very poor. I thought i wanted to work in the industry but i doubt i ever will, i'll just work on my own projects and live veraciously through better actually successful artist
I am so glad i found ur channel. I'm about to graduate from digipen and they are shutting down my program in 2d and 3d animation for film. So I'm very nervous 😅 but this channel and reddit have been a huge help to my mental health. Chin up everyone! We got this! ❤😊
Great vid as always Michelle! And on a topic that is definitely relevant to me now. Graduated 2 years ago and trying to get in the comic/graphic novel industry, and the lack of responses/feeling like you’re drawing in a vacuum can definitely be discouraging.
That favorate movie question wasn't very good. Employers should be more straight with potential employees instead of expecting them to be mind readers. They could have said " We want more cinematic shots so please put more cinematic shots in your boards.
I just finished a 2 year contract with a game company. This was my first contract ever as an artist and currently I feel lost and useless. Also, desperate for work. This video came at the right time. Thank you for making it :)
this video is very helpful! I'm currently a community college student graduating in may and thinking of trying to find jobs in production (which I have workstudy experience with) while i work more on my portfolio which i have already started.👍🏻
any chance for us broke af self-taught folks? tbh i have zero hope nowadays because everything about animation is so automate-able(?). Like, Its so hard to get motivated if your skill and experience isnt even nowhere near the bare minimum to get a career. I swear, 5 years from now, animation will be done with a press of a button.
thank you for this video! i got laid off from my first anim industry job in february and its been really difficult for me to stay motivated. this vid can definitely be a landing point for me when im feeling super stuck
I wanted to be in the animation industry since 2009, I graduated highschool in 2011 and accidentally went to a college that was sued and shut down. Luckily last year I got loan forgiveness after applying for it 5+ years ago. I went to a public college and applied for YEARS in the industry, I wasn’t good enough until more recently, but then more and more information about how much more board artists are required to do that I know nothing about, and studios cancelling projects and laying off so many people and suddenly Covid, caused me far more despair than I have ever felt. So at this moment I have given up on this career. I love drawing and still do but it seems just too much at this point in time. I’m wondering if maybe a non artist job in the animation industry might be better for me. 🤷
I'm glad that I came across your video. I graduated last year December, before that I used to work at my internship company but it didn't pay me much not even reach basic salary then I quited. Months later I applied for jobs for designer/photographer but sadly got rejected, they said I need to practice more which make me realized I'm not good enough. Feeling down for months this video made me realized I'm not alone and being rejected is normal this giving me motivation to not stop improving..once again thank you will defi subcribe
I was going to an art uni, but had to take a break to think what to do because they stopped offering a program. Worst thing here was they LIED on their webpage that it is still "available." which was why I went there in the first place. I'm not really sure what to do since theres no other viable art schools around my area I can go to :( And how the other options are way too overpriced.
Thank you for the info! Would love to see the letters and the interview process. Still in my 3rd year but the worry of the future gets to me. But videos like this makes me feel better in knowing this is expected
When asked "what type of films" you enjoy watching, are they asking for films you think have great cinematography? Or the genre of films you are interested in?
I'm gonna be honest I think art school is such a waste of time...I regret going for graphic design. I graduated in 2020. I was able to get something in 2021 but they just laid me off at the beginning of 2022 even though I gave them the work they asked for. Applied to so many places but got rejected and couldn't find another career in my field. I had to bust my ass doing work at the post office then now I ended up at Amazon. It's just miserable to work so hard for a passion that will barely come, and I advice people to go after high paying jobs first then learn art on the side. I thought graphic design would be easier for me to get into a corporate job but its the same where you need portfolio and a lot of experience with years of it. It's actually insane how years of college and internships still gets you damn near nothing. I mean I still continue to do art on the side but it just sucks waking up knowing that the time was wasted and you have to be at a job for 10 hours back breaking and your true career isn't doing anything...
I'm 30 now and I don't have much work experience. I am preparing a portfolio. I am in a depression. Will they give me a chance for my first job in character design? I am very worried about this. or should I start my own business I'm so undecided
re a video you just straight up reading rejection letters would be such a nice change of pace!! especially today where everyone would just want to post their highlights or life milestones 🥲 i'm tired of feeling alone and depressed with job hunting until i found this video and saw all the comments. it's a sad reality but i feel a little bit better knowing there are people going through the things i'm going through
I wanted to preorder your book, but it doesn't look lik eit'll be out in Ireland for a good few months :c I'm currently a 3rd year in animation (out of 4) doing a mentorship and I feel so lost. I thought I was so sure of what I wanted to do, but now I feel so listless and like I'm just middling in all respects. I have been praised by my mentors for good skills, but with lagging behind severely in college due to mental health disabilities, and being too busy to make a good portfolio, I feel useless.
Aww thank you, I appreciate your patience! I think it's completely normal to feel that way and it's just in general unrealistic for people to assume what they want to do with the rest of their lives at a young age. Honestly, it will be something that constantly changes throughout time in which I still face myself (originally just wanting to be storyboarding only, but now branching out to graphic novels and such). I do hope things get better for you soon though, and I'm sorry it currently seems difficult to see through, but I'm rooting for you!
Maybe that's why it's harder to break into the animation world or art world, it has been tainted by politics. Skills alone is not enough, you must follow a certain political views to get into the industry nowadays, at least that's how I see it.
To follow up on this video, I made a new one called HOW TO JOB JUNT FOR ARTISTS which you can watch here! ruclips.net/video/xWVKjkCWVcs/видео.html
I graduated back in 2018, since then I've applied to studios like Titmouse or Frederator, and small animation studios as a character designer. The most I've gotten to do is become a cartooning teacher for an afterschool program . You need experience with years of sketch, figma and maya apparently, just to even have a view of your CV in my experience. I'm not gonna stop drawing, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disheartened by now
Add that point, if you are required to use tools like Figma, that becomes more UX design than actual art lol
Most schools do not prepare you for the real world. Get a technical certificate in the things you need to know.
@@taylorbee4010 any program or certificate recommendations?
Yea I feel you. I graduated around 2015 and was only getting unpaid or very low paying freelance positions. 😣 I don't think my parents were supportive cause when I tried looking for other jobs for a more secure finance, they recommend the military. Didn't really want to go but it felt like they were pressuring me to go and unfortunately I couldn't quit til later. Now I'm working in a warehouse which is good pay and great work environment, but I still want to be an artist for a living. 😢
The tech industry is taking over art since now they’re trying to make it STEM as STEAM
I graduated from an Art and Design college back in July of 2022, and after spending the remainder of my Summer resting, I decided to apply for a job. I was trying to get a job working as an illustrator and graphic designer, but unfortunately nobody would hire me. I applied to dozens of places, nobody replied back or wanted to hire me. Eventually, in November I buckled down and began working as a carpenter, at the same company as my dad. Needless to say, I don't like it. But the payment is good, and hopefully I can accumulate enough money to finally move out and work someplace else.
Unfortunately, my job is from 8 to 5, not helped by the all the housework I have to do when I get back. This barely leaves much time work on my art, as I feel too bored or exhausted to do anything. I'm doing the best I can, from bringing my sketchbook to work and practice whenever I have spare time, to listening to various artists on RUclips so I can follow their advice, to learning how to turn my art into a business and maybe work freelance. I just hope I can make it someday.
I'm also at the same position as you 😢 Graduated in Visual Arts on May 2022, had a mental breakdown because I felt like I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and how to get a job at the art industry in general (because just applying was not working). Then decided to work as a part-time cashier at a market and I'm still there 🤡 lol
Still have no idea, but what comforts me is that sometimes it be like that, it takes time to land jobs and even so to discover what kind of job you truly like to do. Even if I hate being a cashier, it's an experience that made possible for me to truly understand what I like and don't in a workplace or activities for example.
Whenever I can I'll try to study more about design, illustration and apply for other jobs related to art, but yeah it's really hard to manage this with a job because I feel like I have no energy left to do anything at all lol
But I hope we both find our way into the art industry!
I graduated in 2020 and I've been applying for stuff for over the years. Being consistent with yourself and building a routine definitely helps. Don't give up you got this!
Thank you for sharing your story. I'm sorry to hear you're not exactly where you'd like to be in your artistic career endeavors just yet, but the effort you put to find time to create art in those tiny moments you manage to do so will matter a lot. I think even if the job may be exhausting / boring, I think it is still smart to maintain some financial stability so that when the time comes where you do land an art career, you won't have as much of a financial burden to distract you. I think you are doing great from what you have shared thus far, and that your consistency in working on your art on your spare time while educating yourself is very admirable and will get you somewhere as long as you don't give up. I wish you the best!
Thank you for sharing your experience! I think your mindset is really great in that it is definitely important to have experiences in jobs to just know what it is you DON'T want to do. I'm also glad to hear you are continuing to learn more about design and illustration as well, and not giving up on finding an art job. While it definitely is exhausting, I hope your continued efforts eventually land you somewhere in the art industry!
@@mewTripled Thanks a lot, Michelle! 💖❤️💖 Your videos are also helping me a lot with getting in touch with art and the art industry even though I'm not from USA (I'm brazilian). I'm really grateful for your content and for you being so open to talk about your process of being an artist!
Definitley would love to hear more about how the interview process happens and the rejection letters! Really glad you're putting out all this important information especially as a freshman animation student!
Glad you find this info helpful as I would have died to have a video like this myself post graduation! :') Thank you! I'll def make a video about it
The point of making a new portfolio is so important! I'm working on my graduation film right now and while thinking about the concept I had a strong pressure that it also has to be suitable for my portfolio, I got over it and I'm making something truly for myself. Not everything that you do in school has to be in your portfolio, just assume that you will start a new one after graduation, it will help a lot:)
i'm coming up on one year post-graduation and have still been dealing with this. there are days when i'm just thankful for the little bit of work i've gotten, but sometimes it's hard to stay motivated after all the other rejections. it's nice to hear someone put to words what i've been thinking. thanks for the video!
Thanks! I'm glad my experience was able to help in any way!
I will say, I truly wish I had this video or had more of these kinds of access when I was graduating. All of this was solid advice that unfortunately was not provided to students before being shunned out into the job hunting world and I was SO discouraged, depressed, and struggled badly for 5 years after graduating before finally landing my first animation job. (and then struggled some more after layoffs but with a 'bit' less stress)
I am truly grateful to have my dream career now but looking back, we really dont prepare our students well enough for the job hunt. We focus so much on the 'portfolio' side of things we neglect the business side of knowing our worth for salary, the emotional battle dealing with rejections, and where to find community to help each other.
Thank you SO MUCH Michelle for this video and I wish the best of luck and comfort to everyone on this journey!
They don’t really want to tell anyone that though, because if they did, I guarantee you the department would have a lot of dropouts and it would end up losing funding, as if funding wasn’t already a big enough issue.
@@Darknight0681 I would disagree. I think more of these conversations would improve dropout rates as well as grads finding a job sooner.
my undergrad did not prepare any of their students, but my one year post grad surely did. They had an entire class dedicated to teaching us how to find studios, to salary talk, to how to network. My prof even went so far as to teach us budgeting. I believe it truly depends on departments changing and improving their curriculums to be up to speed with modern times and fully preparing us as 'working adults' and not just 'a student'
I’ve been working off and on in the animation industry for a little over 10 years now and this video is extremely accurate about what it’s like to be an animator in the US. Wish this kind of content existed when I started out as well as during my first layoffs. Everybody finds ways to make ends meet one way or another between projects and learning that balancing act is a key factor while working as an artist. I personally only do freelance animation presently and I was able to do that thanks to connections I got through the years I spent working in a studio. The key is to get many people to know you, your work, and your work ethic as quickly as possible (which is why workshops and classes are better than conventions). Because those people wander off between gigs as well and if they see an opening on their new project that they think your work will be a good for, your name will get tossed around to producers who will then reach out to you. I get emails from past crew members asking if I’m available for work about once or twice a year now. Some years I have no contact at all and other years I had multiple people contact me during the SAME WEEK for different projects. The ebb and flow is real. Best of luck to everyone who is currently job hunting!
Just wanna mention I got a job in my field (vfx animation) right after i graduated but was laid off three years later. but i have to say even though i had to switch to a non-artistic career i still don’t think my degree in art is a waste because there are so many principles i learned for life in general and i was always able to add art to whatever role i ended up with even if it was something small like getting my manager to give me hours to make a team mascot or making a pretty poster or whatever
Thanks for sharing your story, I definitely agree an art degree can still be so useful for many, and the act of going through the motion of art school is a learning experience in itself.
I think aside from the fact that students and graduates can have a rough time getting into jobs, which often have very high expectations, there are simply not enough entry-level positions. I think the art industry has been gaining a lot of traction as of late with more and more people going to art school, it's becoming quite a competitive environment.
I think all the points you have offered are definitely valid but I do wish studios or companies would be more willing to hire entry level positions.
As a sophomore in art school, this is really helpful! I hadn't actually thought what it would be like after graduating, graduation was always the goal. More videos like this would be great!
Im currently in tech college for Digital Media Design, Im in the animation side of things. Currently working at a printing shop, print logos on shirts, pants/ laser engraving mugs, knives and other stuff. Its pretty cool, the pay is ok, but I do hope to get into an animation career in the future. Currently building a website from scratch, in wordpress/divi, so I can make a beautiful portfolio. Whats cool about the school Im in is they teach so much more than whats taught at the university I live at. I got to do Video editing, Storyboarding, Graphic Design, Social Media Marketing, Animations, Photography, 3D modeling, Website Building, etc. They also have been showing us how to use etsy and other print on demand shops effectively. I honestly can't wait for what the future holds.
you need experince to get experince to get an entry level position that requires more work experience enven though yes, you spent a lot of time and money to get the 4+ years of experience and training...
I work in apparel design and I just went to a studio to intern for 3 months than got themp work for about 3 years before getting the job that I have now... that can let anyone go at any time.
its the way the world is moving towards.
i have been applying for animation jobs for 8 months now and nothing... right now I stopped working on retail to work and focus on portfolio to have more to show to the few companies hiring now... thank you so much for this video, it seems like you read my mind sometimes.
the problem is to pay rent while working on portfolio and trying to do online short courses... but it is a good idea to build connections! Michelle youre definitely one of the best art channels here on youtube that helps me to keep motivated and keep going. thank you so much
I feel so lucky to have stumbled across your channel and art, I'm currently a junior in animation and was admittedly feeling very anxious and doubtful about myself and future career. Thank you so much for all the valuable advice you put out for everyone, I think a video on rejections/reasons behind them that you mentioned would be very insightful as well:)
Thanks! I'm glad my video helped in any way, and I'll surely consider doing the rejection video as a future video x'D
Graduated 2019 and started my career last year in 2022 as a 3D game artist for a Sony studio. Mew is hella right, keep busy, keep making new portfolios, keep applying. And don't be too proud to
work a 9-5 because when you get home you work your 5-11 and get your art career off the ground. I haven't had my first layoff yet, I'm a permanent and I've seen people retire from here. So I might just be lucky. But either way I still work on my portfolio and I still keep building relationships because you never know if you just want to jump on another project yourself.
I graduated May 2021 and after seeing the job market not look good in the u.s i decided to broaden my horizons and look for jobs internationally. I am currently on my second year working as a 3d artist in japan, best decision for early career development.
Do you need to move there to do this?
After graduating I struggled to find a job, barely got by because of a friend recommending me for a retail job. Quit that job due to a number of reasons, and now it’s been months since I’ve found work. I’ve applied for all sorts of things, in publishing, in museums working at the front desk, editor positions, etc. All either swift rejections or drawn out ghosting which by this point I’ve basically considered to be a rejection. It’s been the darkest time of my life, with my mom pushing me to get a “government job” for more stability. At this point, I’m at a low I’ve never known before and it’s taking it’s toll greatly, too many nights filled with tears. It feels like my dream doesn’t even want me at this point.
Don’t give up
“Watch more films” I would actively disintegrate
Not graduating this year, but finishing my first year! I feel like this is still a good video to watch, as it can help me prepare better for the future! If I start working to building my portfolio and start applying to internships and small jobs now, by the time I graduate I'll be prepared for the battle ground the industry is! Great video!
Thank you, I'm glad the video can help you feel prepared in any way :)
I’m interested in hearing more about how you search for jobs now since you’re a professional storyboard artist. Do you have certain criteria that you’re looking for when you want to apply for a position. I’m interested in the rejection letters too. Thank you for being open with us and sharing your experiences.
That would be a great video idea I've love to talk / share more about. It's definitely much different compared to job hunting with 0 job experience in the art / animation industry for sure, so thank you!
I'm glad you didn't say getting an Art degree was a mistake.I got an AA now working on a BA and kinda don't know what to major in anymore.A part of me still wants to do TV then a part of me feels like I should take a gaming class.
I graduated back in 2016 with a BFA in illustration. I've struggled to even get internships, and now I feel too old to even break into the industry; I'm 28. I was so close to getting an internship in Tokyo at a foreign owned animation studio and was eventually denied because they stated they couldn't teach me animation. Do companies like this not need... illustrators? Either way, after years of being unable to even intern, I started working in customer service. :( I think I applied to over 100 companies at one point. I just gave up after 7 years. It's also disheartening to see someone with your same skill working in the industry but you aren't.
currently also dealing with this, with almost one year post grad and not finding a job :"l i also feel like the animation industry right now is experiencing a slump, theres not a ton of stuff being made and i see so many people out of work and posting job searching posts
I graduated just yesterday, this is good timing lol. I’m nervous about what will happen, but I want to be optimistic and work hard. Thanks for the info!
How is it going?
I graduated with a drawing degree and it was absolute hell looking for a job-art related or a "normal 9-5." I didn't know if I wanted ot work for an art company-and I still don't know if I'd want to be an artist for a company. Thankfully I got a job now, so I don't have to stress too much about money. Now my next item to tackle is finding groups to continue my art in so I don't lose that skill!
I just wanna be able to move out of my parents' house... with prices nowadays I feel I can't do that without a full-time job - if I got a full-time job in something other than art, I'd have no time or energy to work on my skills and portfolio to land a full-time job in art - so I have to do part-time work and spend the rest of my time studying and brushing up my skills - it's kinda like a vicious circle, y'know?
It's wild how the industry is so hard to get into. All the obstacles and hurdles you have to jump just to secure a job and even then job security isn't promised. I too graduated in 2018, I had disciplines in New Media, English and Info Systems. New Media for editing and art, English for story writing, and Info Systems for my knowledge in computers.
You'd think I'd be able to find a plethora of jobs but nope. I was originally gonna move to L.A. In order to be closer to the industry but had no money. So I got a job where I live and hoped to save up and move. Then COVID happened and kinda screwed with my plans. I don't think it's a total waste though. Last year alone WBD, Disney, and other companies laid off a lot of people from streaming jobs, especially the animation division. Not saying I would've gotten something but I could've been 1 of thousands that got laid off just to return home in shame.
Since COVID, I've gotten my CDL and are focusing on other avenues to accumulate income in order to pursue my dream and not go broke doing it. I'm learning more and more everyday that this industry is way unpredictable and a plan B-Z should be in place if your first plan doesn't work. Good luck to everyone pursing animation, who knows what the future holds.
I graduated from an Animation & Illustration degree back in 2016, went back and did a Masters on the same course in 2018. Came out with top marks both times and have tried countless times to get somehwere I'd like be. I started with animation studios like Titmouse, Sun & Moon, The Line and a bunch of other but never heard anything. I tried looking at Art/Character Design instead but never heard back again. All the places (even entry level, no joke) were looking for at least 4 years of experience and I doubt my CV and reels even got a look-in.
I work in a pub now. I still draw and animate between shifts, on my own personal projects, to put together a new portfolio and I do think I'm much better than I used to be, because the feeling of creating something, ANYTHING helps, but I often feel like I've stalled completely. Rejections don't bother me as much as they used to but it's the thought of never being thats worse, especially now I'm 29. I know I'm CERTAINLY not the only one and I can only keep moving forward
Earlier in the semester, I was really anxious about being jobless in the future. I wanted to focus on perfecting my portfolio and resume to try and land an art job. But seeing how rocky the industry is, I have to come to the conclusion that that's just not realistic to get in right away. I am still pursuing storyboarding as a career and finishing school strong. I will still look for art jobs. But in the mean time, I also have to swallow my pride for a bit and start working with my mom at the hospital first, just to get something stable on my belt, while applying to different studios. Good luck everyone, it's a tough world out there!
It's easy to not be accepted into movie industries, movies are supposed to be viewed as a perfect imaginative spectacle and they need specific artists and employees. I wish I could give your past self a hug👍
I graduated in December and I am so nervous! I’ve been rejected by a lot of art jobs but I landed a graphic design job! Not exactly what I want to do but it’s a step! Working with great people and it’s pretty good! Hope to learn more skills and build a new portfolio! With more time for me I hope to work on my art and grow as an artist! Thank you for this! I was looking a for vids of post art college life. Ty for posting this at the right time! 🥺♥️
Also yes please do a rejection letter video!!
I greatly appreciate your insight as a professional. This especially rings true as I've been through years of schooling and have gone through this exact situation, only to be sacked from my first job for not being experienced enough. As I'm going through art education a second time, the thought of reliving this looms over my mind constantly, but it eases me a bit to know this happens even at more experienced levels and can be overcome.
I think the important thing is to always be finding a way to fulfill your passion, and keep doing what you can to achieve happiness. I hope you'll find your next big gig soon mew, until then keep on drawing and creating ✌
Graduated in 2020. Did the networking thing, went to so many industry events through 2018-2019 to prep. Haven't had a SINGLE gig, not even an interview, even when i tried to lean on my "industry" connections! One dude who empathized with me on being laid off together when I was laid off from my day job last winter. That guy had another animation job within 5 days, I've been unemployed for 6 months!!! Life is a kick in the ass, and sure, every closed door leads you down the hall to the right open one, but this industry feels more like a funhouse maze in the dark than any sensible thing sometimes. Like, it seems everyone's frustrated with the industry right now; current artists getting laid off, other artists frustrated with working conditions, (DW seems to have frequent complaints) to the point that it seems like ani twt was talking all about the absolute lack of projects that are hiring, probably due to the recession. Hopefully we all get lucky next project season?
I've looked up to you & your journey since 2018 and it's a fucked up world that you're at the moment just as unemployed as me, but in this moment I feel the brotherhood of struggling, frustrated artists. Thank you again for being so transparent about your experiences, for the educational purposes and empathy for us, your peers.
Thank you for this video. I do not have an Art background for my studies but the feeling of applying, waiting and often getting rejected is so familiar. I feel we (fresh grads) are not prepared enough for the job market in general. But it's great that you had feedback from some companies at least! I would love to see the process as well 😊
This video is really helpful! I graduated a couple months back and just been frustrated that I haven’t been getting my foot in the door to work. So I decided to re-work my portfolio and study my fundamentals again
It always happens in big spurts, youll get no offers or jobs, and then they all come at once. Happens all the time, so weird.
idk why i even watched this lol I dropped out of a bio med program, now i aspire to be a writer/artisit/creator but i doubt i'll ever have the opportunity to go any school ever again, im very poor. I thought i wanted to work in the industry but i doubt i ever will, i'll just work on my own projects and live veraciously through better actually successful artist
I am so glad i found ur channel. I'm about to graduate from digipen and they are shutting down my program in 2d and 3d animation for film. So I'm very nervous 😅 but this channel and reddit have been a huge help to my mental health. Chin up everyone! We got this! ❤😊
Travelling is def a good idea i a person can. it can create so many life experiences that will def show in a person's art 😀
Great vid as always Michelle! And on a topic that is definitely relevant to me now. Graduated 2 years ago and trying to get in the comic/graphic novel industry, and the lack of responses/feeling like you’re drawing in a vacuum can definitely be discouraging.
That favorate movie question wasn't very good. Employers should be more straight with potential employees instead of expecting them to be mind readers. They could have said " We want more cinematic shots so please put more cinematic shots in your boards.
I just finished a 2 year contract with a game company. This was my first contract ever as an artist and currently I feel lost and useless. Also, desperate for work. This video came at the right time. Thank you for making it :)
this video is very helpful! I'm currently a community college student graduating in may and thinking of trying to find jobs in production (which I have workstudy experience with) while i work more on my portfolio which i have already started.👍🏻
any chance for us broke af self-taught folks? tbh i have zero hope nowadays because everything about animation is so automate-able(?). Like, Its so hard to get motivated if your skill and experience isnt even nowhere near the bare minimum to get a career. I swear, 5 years from now, animation will be done with a press of a button.
thank you for this video! i got laid off from my first anim industry job in february and its been really difficult for me to stay motivated. this vid can definitely be a landing point for me when im feeling super stuck
Lol this video kind of came perfectly for me, I just got my storyboarding certificate Thank you for motivating me to get my portfolio out there.
Thank you! And congratulations on receiving your storyboarding certificate!
I wanted to be in the animation industry since 2009, I graduated highschool in 2011 and accidentally went to a college that was sued and shut down. Luckily last year I got loan forgiveness after applying for it 5+ years ago.
I went to a public college and applied for YEARS in the industry, I wasn’t good enough until more recently, but then more and more information about how much more board artists are required to do that I know nothing about, and studios cancelling projects and laying off so many people and suddenly Covid, caused me far more despair than I have ever felt. So at this moment I have given up on this career. I love drawing and still do but it seems just too much at this point in time.
I’m wondering if maybe a non artist job in the animation industry might be better for me. 🤷
I'm glad that I came across your video. I graduated last year December, before that I used to work at my internship company but it didn't pay me much not even reach basic salary then I quited. Months later I applied for jobs for designer/photographer but sadly got rejected, they said I need to practice more which make me realized I'm not good enough. Feeling down for months this video made me realized I'm not alone and being rejected is normal this giving me motivation to not stop improving..once again thank you will defi subcribe
I was going to an art uni, but had to take a break to think what to do because they stopped offering a program. Worst thing here was they LIED on their webpage that it is still "available." which was why I went there in the first place. I'm not really sure what to do since theres no other viable art schools around my area I can go to :( And how the other options are way too overpriced.
Thank you for the info! Would love to see the letters and the interview process. Still in my 3rd year but the worry of the future gets to me. But videos like this makes me feel better in knowing this is expected
Perfect timing I'm a senior in uni rn T^T
This is what I needed to hear. Thank you!
When asked "what type of films" you enjoy watching, are they asking for films you think have great cinematography? Or the genre of films you are interested in?
Good God Almighty, this sounds like a horrific process to get going doing what you want to do in life.
I'm gonna be honest I think art school is such a waste of time...I regret going for graphic design. I graduated in 2020. I was able to get something in 2021 but they just laid me off at the beginning of 2022 even though I gave them the work they asked for. Applied to so many places but got rejected and couldn't find another career in my field. I had to bust my ass doing work at the post office then now I ended up at Amazon. It's just miserable to work so hard for a passion that will barely come, and I advice people to go after high paying jobs first then learn art on the side. I thought graphic design would be easier for me to get into a corporate job but its the same where you need portfolio and a lot of experience with years of it. It's actually insane how years of college and internships still gets you damn near nothing. I mean I still continue to do art on the side but it just sucks waking up knowing that the time was wasted and you have to be at a job for 10 hours back breaking and your true career isn't doing anything...
I'm 30 now and I don't have much work experience. I am preparing a portfolio. I am in a depression. Will they give me a chance for my first job in character design? I am very worried about this. or should I start my own business I'm so undecided
re a video you just straight up reading rejection letters would be such a nice change of pace!! especially today where everyone would just want to post their highlights or life milestones 🥲 i'm tired of feeling alone and depressed with job hunting until i found this video and saw all the comments. it's a sad reality but i feel a little bit better knowing there are people going through the things i'm going through
I’d love a video on the rejection letters… would be helpful/insightful. What are your thoughts on Adobe firefly plans for ai storyboarding?
I wanted to preorder your book, but it doesn't look lik eit'll be out in Ireland for a good few months :c
I'm currently a 3rd year in animation (out of 4) doing a mentorship and I feel so lost. I thought I was so sure of what I wanted to do, but now I feel so listless and like I'm just middling in all respects. I have been praised by my mentors for good skills, but with lagging behind severely in college due to mental health disabilities, and being too busy to make a good portfolio, I feel useless.
Aww thank you, I appreciate your patience! I think it's completely normal to feel that way and it's just in general unrealistic for people to assume what they want to do with the rest of their lives at a young age. Honestly, it will be something that constantly changes throughout time in which I still face myself (originally just wanting to be storyboarding only, but now branching out to graphic novels and such). I do hope things get better for you soon though, and I'm sorry it currently seems difficult to see through, but I'm rooting for you!
I think like every art school student is jobless because it's kind of pointless to go to school for art when you can just do it at home for free
Me 5 years searching and counting for serious art jobs > ☠️ ( freelance fantasy illustration tho )
Did you only apply to these big studios after art school or also smaller (maybe indie) studios?
I also applied to smaller studios as well but didn't get anything - even internships or trainee positions.
Wow 😳
You can start by not going into politics .
Maybe that's why it's harder to break into the animation world or art world, it has been tainted by politics. Skills alone is not enough, you must follow a certain political views to get into the industry nowadays, at least that's how I see it.
I’m actually curious on what films did you say 😆🥲
Same lol