Callie
Backup Plan In Case My Dream Job Doesn't Work Out?
My backup plan is to work in computer sciences if my animating career doesn't work out. Are there any better jobs that would work with me?
#Art #animation #career #career-counseling #job
4 answers
Paul A Coulter
Paul A’s Answer
Ellen Rosenthal
Ellen’s Answer
Oh Callie, sometimes you young students can be a little too realistic! Of course I'd want to encourage you to follow your dream in animation, but I know from experience, sometimes that dream job does not work out. Having a career in the arts is not easy, there is lots of competition for jobs, there aren't that many jobs to even apply for, the pay is often really low when you start out, and long term financial stability is sometimes iffy.
So, yes, having a Plan B is not a bad idea. Computer Science would be a way to go, I'm thinking you probably have had a lot of computer graphics experience and feel that would be a good segue into a computer based career. That would work, but it you would like something a little closer to the arts...why not consider a career in art education? I'm a retired art teacher, and when I retired 2 years ago, computer graphics were the fastest growing classes in the middle and high school levels. If you love animation and want to share your experience and enthusiasm, and you like working with young people, then, teaching computer graphics in middle or high school might be for you. I would talk to your current computer graphics teachers about their careers. You can also check out the National Art Education Art Association (NAEA) 's website for more information about a career in art education.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Backup Plan In Case My Dream Job Doesn’t Work Out?
If your dream job in animation doesn’t work out, it’s essential to have a backup plan to ensure financial stability and career growth. One option mentioned is working in computer sciences, which is a broad field with various opportunities. However, there might be other jobs that align better with your skills and interests. Here are some suggestions:
1. User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers focus on creating products and services that are easy to use and enjoyable for users. This field combines creativity and problem-solving, which are skills developed in animation. As a UX designer, you’d work closely with developers, project managers, and other designers to improve user experiences.
2. Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual content for various media, such as print, web, and social media. This field requires a strong understanding of design principles, typography, and color theory, which are transferable skills from animation. As a graphic designer, you could work in advertising, marketing, or publishing industries.
3. Multimedia Artist and Animator: Although this option is related to animation, it’s worth considering if your dream job doesn’t work out. Multimedia artists and animators create visual effects, animations, and other digital content for various industries, such as film, television, and video games. This field has a diverse range of opportunities and can be a good alternative to traditional animation roles.
Are There Any Better Jobs That Would Work With Me?
When considering alternative career paths, it’s essential to evaluate your skills, interests, and values. Here are some suggestions based on your background in art and animation:
1. Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual style and creative direction of projects, such as advertisements, films, or video games. This role requires strong artistic skills, a good understanding of design principles, and the ability to lead a team. If you’ve gained management experience in animation, this could be a suitable career path.
2. Storyboard Artist: Storyboard artists create visual representations of scripts for films, television shows, or commercials. This role combines artistic skills with storytelling abilities, which are valuable skills developed in animation. As a storyboard artist, you could work in various industries, such as advertising, film, or television.
3. Game Designer: Game designers create and develop video games, which involves designing game mechanics, storylines, and characters. This field requires a strong understanding of art, design, and programming, making it an excellent choice for someone with a background in animation.
Authoritative Reference Titles
LinkedIn Learning: This online learning platform offers courses on various creative and technical skills, including UX design, graphic design, and game design. The courses can help you learn new skills and explore alternative career paths in the creative industry.
Creative Circle: Creative Circle is a staffing agency specializing in creative talent, such as designers, animators, and writers. Their website offers job listings and resources to help professionals navigate their careers in the creative industry.
AIGA: AIGA, the professional association for design, provides resources, events, and networking opportunities for designers. Their website offers career advice, job listings, and insights into various design fields, including UX design, graphic design, and art direction.
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Kid Cardona
Kid’s Answer
There's always McDonald's, ok, not what you had in minnd. First animators there are still many options besides animation.
There's advertising. Noticed how many commercials out there have animation, FX scenes, cartoon characters with live action and I've even seen claymation being used.
Don't feel like advertising is your thing? Then look at design studios, architecture studio, screen printing shops. Look around you and make a note of all the art elements you see on a day to day basis. I'm sure you'll find a bichon that will appeal to you for the Back up plan.
Good luck.