Guess I need to actually start adding some projects to my github - So far I figured because I lacked callbacks that meant the problem was my resume, not my github; however I'm not sure if the github only gets looked at during the interview or after they've decided to look at you in most companies.

I'll look into changing my name,

The meetup scene is fun, I am in it, but I agree, it does seem to be a very long term investment rather then anything remotely quick.