[zmoazeni]

> No matter what happens, you aren't going to find work in Michigan. You aren't connected and from the sound of it your resume is very light, and you don't have a network, so contracting and freelancing just isn't realistic for you

I disagree with this. Speaking from experience, it is very possible to fill up on remote freelance gigs. In fact, I work in Northern Michigan, which has a much slower economy than West Michigan and the Ann Arbor area. You don't have to take work from only Michigan.

If you're starting out, keep your rates lower until you get a feel for the work. You may find that you like being a full time remote freelancer.