26m 4 years post undergrad, feel like giving up.
I graduated in 2022 with a BFA. Wanted to work in publishing, journalism, or a nonprofit in the arts. Tried getting the right internships but never did.
In 2023 I moved to nyc. Since then I’ve had the cliche string of odd jobs. Teaching, dog walking, art handling. I’ve kept writing through all of this, and publishing (book reviews and interviews mostly). But I’m tired of the odd jobs.
I have tried every possible “career pivot” strategy you could think of. Re-ordering the experience on my resume, sending networking emails/linkedin messages, reaching out to alumni. I even started a reading series two years ago that me and one other person are still running. It’s been successful, drawing big crowds and even getting some media attention. I’m grateful for the friends I’ve been making and the fact that it’s been successful. It’s also been a good place to “network” but hasn’t produced a job. I meet agents, editors, etc every month. But I’m still in my day job that I hate.
It feels like I’m out of options. I’m really depressed and feel like if my career hasn’t started by now it never will.
I’m applying to fully funded MFAs this fall. Something I never thought I’d do. But if I’m able to spend 2-3 years focused on improving my writing, and hopefully getting some new skills in teaching and editorial work, then it’s worth it.
What do I do?