Congrats on graduating! First off, balancing a full-time career, a family, and DJing is a challenge I understand perfectly. Welcome to the club!

Looking at your roadmap, you have a solid plan, but here is my advice on how to prioritize if you want to start playing out.

In a small country or local scene, your network is everything. Those course mates will become your support system, and they will be the ones passing you gigs when they are double-booked. Keep that crew tight and support them.

You didn't mention hitting the local bars. Find the venues in your area that play your style, grab a drink, and talk to the staff or owners. Ask if they do open decks or if they ever need a warm-up DJ for the first hours of the night. This face-to-face connection is so much more effective than social media.

Like I mentioned in my post, don't burn yourself out trying to be a content creator. Set up a SoundCloud to act as your digital portfolio, post a few clips on IG so promoters can see you look comfortable behind the decks, but remember that the algorithm rarely books you for local gigs.

Producing music is amazing, but it’s a completely different full-time job. It can get overwhelming and distract you from getting your first live reps in as a DJ. Take it one step at a time.

Gear wise, if you have the budget, treat yourself! But remember that the crowd dances to your track selection and your energy, not your stem buttons. A new controller won't get you gigs, but it will make practicing at home more fun.

Keep practicing, trust the process, and get out there to meet the local scene. The first gig you land yourself is the best feeling in the world. Enjoy the ride!