[tagabek]

First off, what specifically do YOU want to be doing?

Let's say you haven't figured that one out just yet. If this is the case, I would suggest freelancing in the meantime.

You may find this recent thread useful: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=5731198

[aperture]

I'm sorry, I didn't mention! I would like to do some application development, ideally I'd like to refactor some large business application, or deal with unix and linux system development. Which is why I don't really do much with the web. (side note: is this a bad path to take?)

Thank you for the thread link. Actually, the most respectable company in my area I met at the local tech meetup, and I managed to get an internship there (I had to leave, and wasn't paid, but that was what taught me about Sans, major networking, and esxi, which I previously never knew even existed).

[tagabek]

If you present yourself in a way that the business will like, this sounds like an amazing path to take.

For example, instead of applying to different jobs as 'just' a CS graduate (you are WAY more than that), present yourself as someone who can save the business a lot of money by improving their existing software. Even though you are the same person either way, presentation is nearly EVERYTHING.

[aperture]

Thanks, I appreciate the comment! I'm usually very good at presentation, and regularly try to practice coding for those dreaded puzzle questions, but is there any more prep work I should do for work in 2015? Should I give calls and look for a job before moving, and is silicon valley really the only place to look to?

[tagabek]

I would focus on becoming as noticed as possible. You may even want to find a niche for yourself, which is a great way for people to remember you. For example, when I think of an app designer, I immediately think of Nathan Barry (author of the App Design Handbook, among other things). Building that reputation will be worth a lot!

As far as prep work goes, freelancing and building your own apps/projects is a great option. You get to LEARN by taking on interesting projects, NETWORK with professionals that lead to more opportunities, and earn MONEY.

Should I give calls and look for a job before moving

If it's a specific job, then yes! Communicate with the company/team and get to know them. Instead of saying, "I'm aperture and I would like to apply," say, "Hi! Your project is great and I really love what you are doing with it." You are essentially introducing yourself. They will most likely remember that - especially if they are a smaller company.

is silicon valley really the only place to look to?

SV is an amazing place filled with amazing people, but it is not the only place to look into. There are many tech hubs in California. Find out what you can afford, and what amenities you want from your city/town. Do you like being close to the beach (San Diego)? Do you like living in a fast-paced city (Los Angeles)? Would you like a view of the mountains (Mountain View)? If you have some time off, visit each place you're interested in for a week or so to get a feel of what they're like.

[aperture]

I see, I'll try to narrow myself down to a niche that I can do rather well, but I'll do so by trying a wide array of projects that I may find interesting. Communication is always key, and I will also go for the smaller companies as well as the tech giants we are all familiar with. I will definitely look into going to California (as well as New York) in order to get a feel for the environment that may best suit me. Thank you for the tips and locations!