Looking to build experience in the US

[phanzo]

Hey folks,

My name's Dustin, I graduated from Full Sail University with degrees in Music Business and Recording Arts back in Fall 08. After graduation, I did an internship at the University's Game Development program, handling all aspects of audio for the students' final projects. Since then, I have been applying for Sound Design positions all over the US but am always told that I don't have enough experience for the job.

I was wondering if any of you fine folks could offer me some help. I am looking for any opportunity to develop my skills and learn as much as possible. I have a dream of working as a sound designer for a big name developer, but without more experience on my resume, I can't even get my foot in the door. I am looking for tips, hints, jobs, whatever I can get.

I appreciate any and all help.

Thanks!!

Dustin

[george]

Hey Dustin!

Welcome to the site and welcome to the forums. I hope you find them both entertaining and insightful.

The first piece of advice that I would give you would be to think a little laterally. Maybe try to find an entry level position at a music production company, recording studio, or even in film/TV. This can give you a significant leg up and prove to game devs that you are serious and are interested in audio. You may also try getting into a game dev studio as a QA tester, many have done it that way and it can prove to be successful. You may also try to do some smaller games (for cell phones, internet) with a small dev at first to get your feet wet and get some titles under your belt.

Hope those ideas help and let us know how you're doing

George.

[phanzo]

Thanks George!!

My main problem is that I currently live in Phoenix, Arizona which only has one major developer (Rainbow Studios), who never hires. I had an opportunity to do QA for EA Sports in Orlando after I graduated, but unfortunately they took to long with the hiring process and I decided to move to Phoenix instead. The called me the DAY before I left for Phoenix to offer me a job. I was kinda bummed.

I am currently looking for work at post-production facilities as well, since I know many of those skills are transferable to game. As for small devs, do you have any sources of how I could find them locally? My main problem with that is that I don't have any sound libraries to build with. I need to buy a field recorder, but my budget right now doesn't allow for me to get a good one.

That may be a different discussion for a different thread, but could anyone recommend a GOOD entry level recorder? I have read good things about the H4n. Thoughts?

I appreciate any and all help. Again, I am ready to work and get dirty. I just need to opportunity.

Thanks!

[george]

I would start with a Google search for small devs, you may be surprised at how many may be in your area.

As far as portable recorders go, check out our review of the H4 and H4n http://gamesounddesign.com/ZoomH4vsH2.html. There are many alternatives as well, and you should be able to find a decent one for under $500. I personally own an older H4 and I think it's great.

George.