Hey guys...
I graduated in 2002 and I was pretty discouraged by the state of the IT industry. I spent a whole year on getting certified and working small projects. Didn't find a full-time since then, but fortunately I found a partner that is really good at locking contracts with all types of businesses. We did websites and back-ends for senior clubs, furniture stores, tool resellers, etc... etc...
I guess I got lucky in a way, because without a proper partner that has some leads, you cannot set up contracts on your own. However, the lesson out of all this thing, is that you don't have to wait for small and sturggling businesses to offer you underpaid and stressful jobs. Take some steps, meet some people and try to start some independent consulting company.
In the next few days I'll set up a small business in my name, and get everything figured out as far as taxes and deductibles go...
Maybe there is some hope after all... At least I have money for food (I'm eating dog-food but it's still food right? hehe, just kiding guys)...
Be on the lookout for opportunities and talk to old partners... I used to know this guy back in 1998, we talked on the phone two times and now everything is in full-swing.
Anyhow, what I'm trying to say is that thre are a lot of small businesses that are in desperate need of ICS systems update, a website, a utility for their UPCS, etc etc... THere are contracts to be found all around the small business community. Maybe you won't get to work with
EJB every other project but c'eset la vie.
Anyhow don't do drugs and stay in school (unless you're going for your master because it's a waste).