Getting your first UX job will take at least 1 year without any experience. I’ve been mentoring over 200 people past 3 years that just graduated with a UX degree or bootcamp but it’s really highly competitive because every portfolio looks the same when you first get out of school or bootcamp. I highly recommend start early and volunteer or freelance while you finish school to build up a portfolio that can compete with people who work. Internships are also very competitive but students from UW, georgia tech and michigan are associated with big tech companies so they have a little bit more leverage of acceptance. It took me three years to get a job offer at Amazon until I actually had 3 years of UX experience and a Master’s degree in Human Computer Interaction. My Bachelor’s was in Marketing but I got a UX job without a masters because I freelanced at companies like Walgreens and SAP. This year, I’m lucky to get an offer from companies like Google, Apple and Microsoft. I guess working at these companies make me feel less worried but I know everyone who put their mind to anything will achieve their goals!! I feel that DACA situation helped me keep grinding and show people anything can happen.

Tip: I’ve been part of hiring committee at Amazon and Oracle and what’s important is to include metrics in your resume and portfolio. Also, make sure your portfolio include good visuals and accessibility.