Tracy Perkins

Graphic Design and Brand Development

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Jake

Optimism 2.0

I remember a time back in college where I was emerging from my shell, understanding my own weaknesses and then moving past them with such optimism that I could take on the world. I had worked my way back into UC Davis after failing out via calculus, was looking forward to my first classes in my new major and I had recently discorded that I was a pretty good painter.

Fast forward past graduation and several part-time filler jobs, after years of not finding work in my field I became cynical and felt trapped by the world. I needed to work my ass off in order to live the quality of life I enjoyed. I wanted to work on creative pursuits, but with all of my energy constantly being sapped out of me the creative flow had dried up.

Jump forward again to present day. I finally landed a job in my field, found the love of my life and somehow managed to survive one of the greatest challenges of my generation: being under-employed and having to move back in with your parents after years of being on your own. I still feel trapped by the monitory mechanisms of society, but I have hope again.

This hope mostly comes from the fact that I am actively taking control of my personal life. It’s funny how just a few changes such as working out, caring about my looks, cleaning my house—mostly those super adult things every child swears they never want to do—tend to bring a sense of accomplishment and serenity to your life. When the house is clean, I don’t feel like the world is caving in on me.When I make a point to do my hair and makeup daily I feel more confident. And when I go to the gym regularly I have more ambition to do the things I know I need to do.

Now if only I can get my other half to start adopting some of these habits. It might help him life his black cloud and reach that next level he thinks he can’t get to.

Good News Everyone!

I can officially say that I am employed. It’s not a full time salary gig, but it’s still a gig. Even if it only ends up being this one project. I’m working for Spy Post, a San Francisco based post-production house, as a design assistant. Today is my second day here, and while the hours are long, it’s nice to be gainfully employed and not hating my job. I dare to say it, but aside from software hangups I think I’m actually enjoying myself. It’s kinda funny, I’m the graphic design version of what Jake does over at Ntropic (he’s video, not design) except I’m working at the studio he wants to be working for. So there is a bit of resentment on his part that I’m working over here and he’s not, especially since I was hooked up with the gig through his contact. Aside from that, things seem to be going well over here so far. I like the people I’m working with, the job is interesting, and it beats making coffee all to hell. Ooo, I can drink coffee while working and not get in trouble! (We weren’t allowed to have drinks on the floor at Sbux.) So hopefully my time here will go well and they’ll keep me on. I hope so. I like ti here so far.

With A Little Help From My Friends

After feeling totally unproductive yesterday I got a phone call that turned the day into one of my most promising in terms of employment in months.Yukiko called to let me know that there was an opening at Snapfish for the Creative Marketing Manager position and was curious if I was interested. Considering that marketing that leans more toward advertising is my strength and what I have primarily worked in I was more than interested. My time with Unitrans and Bel-Ray both revolved around marketing and advertising with a dash of design. The design background helps me to better understand who I am marketing to and how I can go about reaching them most effectively. 

I have to say that I am incredibly greatful to Yukiko for the referral. More than once she has helped me find out about jobs and has always been a huge encouragement and support when it comes to me finding something other than Starbucks to work at. It just goes to show that you should be greatful for your friends and them looking out for you.
Later in the evening when Jake got home, he had a listing of open positions at Eleven, Inc. that they were hiring for. Eleven Inc., being the advertising company that his company, Ntropic, partners with from time to time. So even more good news on the job front. Especially since Jake knows people at Eleven Inc.

So now less than a day later I have an interview set up for tomorrow and a bunch of job leads to follow up on. Wish me luck!