Or brochure, poster, blabla design or whatever... I've done so far 2 small business websites and a brochure, plus work as a group on several other projects however those were through the school which uses it's own contacts. I made $450 for about half a year's work lul. So I need a real job. Technically I'm an employee of my college but you can't exactly live off $450. And I'm really reluctant to go get a job at McDonalds or something . How the fudge do you get a job in this area? People tell me network network network but my network sucks because I'm just not a people person. I'm not anti-people and get along great with 'em but I just don't talk much (by choice not shyness). Hey, I'm working on it! So... am I doomed?
You're not doomed, I'd focus on an offline job and design during the free time you have left. Try to build a good portfolio, share useful design information so people know you're not just saying you can do it but actually know things about it. You could join contests on sites like 99designs to get your name out there a little. Also if you create an amazing looking site and CSS showcase sites start linking to it, that's a great way to promote your design skills.
Start a site, get a porfolio and offer your services. Try to get on free lance sites and link with large web design companies..
First to get off to the right track I would suggest following some tutorials for Photoshop. This will sharpen your skills and let you have some works to show potential clients. Then start off with small banners, logos, and headers which will help you gain your portfolio. These will be easy to create after you have sharpened your skills in Photoshop. Once you are ready for bigger more detailed projects you can start on web designs. I have followed these rules and have made pretty decent so far since June. I would say over $500 maybe more or less and I don't have to work very often. Last of all join eLance for higher paying jobs. The membership will cost $10-40 depending on what you purchase but in the long run you will make it back in a project or two. Maybe less just depends on how much you trust your design skills.
defiantly start a portfolio of everything you do. When you see people on DP that need work done, offer them top notch service at a competitive price.
I'm not a people person either (no kidding!), but my clients have the impression that I'm "charming" and "sweet" (yes they've really said this). Just treat all your clients like you're chatting them up, which is essentially what you're doing - and make them feel like they're the most important people on the planet. Most businesses will NOT spend hours trawling the web looking for a print/web designer - they'll ask their friends who they use. Your clients are your best form of advertising. Make 'em love you. You only need a few chatterbox clients to spread the word to their friends, essentially doing your networking for you. Before you know it, you've got yourself a real business.