So I just graduated with a B.Sc in Computer Science and a minor in Math (including linear algebra). First things first, I started the job hunt late (first apps sent in around 4/25). Not much I can do now except move forward, but keep that in mind.
I'm having trouble (1) finding entry level or junior positions available and (2) getting any kind of headway at all. I'd like to ask a few questions first, and I'll try to keep them brief.
1) How strict are language requirements for applications generally? I've seen jobs listed as entry level that list upwards of a dozen different languages.
2) What jobs should I be looking for as a recent grad? I'm aware people specialize over time, but since I'm just starting out, the most specific I can be right now is just "programmer" or "software engineer". I've checked out orcahq, gamedevmap also. I've also applied for some QA jobs thinking I could move up the ladder later.
I've also applied to a solid amount of non-gaming companies.
3) I've gotten responses back from non-interested parties that I sent in applications for almost a month ago. Is this standard? And what's a hit/miss ratio I should be expecting because I've gotten almost no hits in probably 100+ applications.
It just seems like unless you spent all your free time doing projects and in internships you have no chance. I'm applying to every size of company on every level of the spectrum, so don't think I'm just applying to EA, NaughtyDog, Blizzard, etc and being confused why I don't get chosen. I understand I have no chance compared to other candidates for spots like that.
I've been looking on the west coast as a whole (California, Washington state, Oregon), Austin (TX), Boston, and Chicago. One thing to note is that I live in central Illinois (about 2 hours from Chicago). I'm worried that might be scaring off some hiring managers that see I live half a country away. I've added that I plan on moving as part of the main body of my cover letter, though.
Transitioning to that, I'll attach my resume to this post. My objective statement of what I can offer I include as the body of my cover letter and edit it as needed for each application.
I'll also note that I'll be working on learning Unity in my free time now as well as job searching, although job searching is by far my first priority. I'm open to other recommendations for the best languages to learn.
My current portfolio can be found at: http://github.com/AbedBraff
Right now I'm not sure what to do except widen my search in terms of locations, but it seems like I'm not getting any bites regardless, so that seems pointless. I'm really just feeling kind of lost and like I did when I was younger looking at "entry" applications that say "5+ year experience" which seems like its barely hyperbole at this point.
Any help appreciated. Also, I'm new here sooo....Hi everyone! Thanks in advance for any replies.
[attachment=35935:ZacharyMitchellCV.pdf]