Thread #34438011
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After 10+ years in VFX in top tier films and TV, the last 2 years I have been more unemployed than employed, currently back at my parents'. VFX is in crisis, wages are stuck in 2019, and it won't improve. I am feeling suicidal.
I could pay a decent chunk if it guarantees the change. An option is a top European MBA (INSEAD, LBS, IESE...) but I am afraid that without a related degree & interships in my CV, this would be a waste, and if I get lucky I'd compete with fresh 25 year olds for 90hr-week consulting jobs.
Another option is doing CompSci part-time, but I wouldn't switch until 40 for an entry-level wage, plus I don't know I can take the instability of VFX for much longer.
Lastly I believe I could be generate synthetic data for AI/tech, but in the UK and Spain the market feels non-existant compared to the US, and there I'd need a VISA.
My actual background is a bachelor in Fine Arts + unofficial Masters from the then top European VFX school. I'm on the technical side, do explosions, liquids, crowds, tool development, etc, and am familiar with a C-like language, Python, Unreal and Houdini.
I'm very thankful for any advice.
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>>34438011
As you seem aware, ageism is going to be a factor to consider if you plan to pursue further education and work for a company. If you're willing to spend money, it would be wise to invest it in acquiring knowledge (technical, financial, legal, etc.) that will allow you to run your own business in the future.
I once read that some people who worked in the VFX industry went on to create their own studios or transform themselves into 'one-stop shops,' offering a wider range of services beyond their core area of expertise.
This video about ageism comes to mind: https://youtu.be/vn10afXXjlY?t=927 (if you're interested, watch from this point until 39:25—the rest is an ad). While some of his points are overkill, the core idea is still relevant.
In the meantime, taking any classes or even working in a "normal" temporary job could refocus your perspective and open you up to new possibilities beyond those you’re currently considering.