My advice is to network. When I moved after university, I didn’t know anybody, so I got in touch with the local landscape architecture board and asked if there were any upcoming events or lectures that I could attend. I joined garden clubs, a drawing club, and a local network to get children in nature. I also followed local design projects online and social media and contacted firms where I had a shared interest with what they were doing. I would ask if I could meet for coffee, or attend community consultations or volunteer. A lot of the firms in my area don’t advertise when there are positions available, when they’re looking for new employees they often rely on recommendations. I made sure that I was known to the firms before they were even looking. I ended up getting a job with a firm with no previous work experience but I showed initiative, professionalism, and an eagerness to learn. In addition, I also showed that I was willing to communicate and follow through, both critical when dealing with clients. The firm,agreed to try me out for 6 months to see how I would do, I’ve been there 1 1/2 years now and am starting my LAREs. Everyone starts with no experience at some point. If you can’t take an AutoCAD class, follow tutorials online. Hope that helps.
