Hey, HNers,<p>I'm a 19 year-old, self-taught programmer (C/systems + ruby experience) and I'm having a hell of a time finding relevant programming internships/job opportunities in the Chicago-land area.<p>Currently, I've been most "successful" (if you can call it success) by first tracking down software companies operating in Chicago and then checking if they have any available internship opportunities. Is there a better way?<p>How would you go about looking for internships (or an entry-level job) as a self-taught programmer? Are there any companies in the Chicago-land area willing to take a chance on a passionate programmer without a degree?
<i>Currently, I've been most "successful" (if you can call it success) by first tracking down software companies operating in Chicago and then checking if they have any available internship opportunities. Is there a better way?</i><p>Why not contact them anyway? Whether they've posted an internship or not? I know it's easier said than done, but this is a scenario where you'll lose nothing by emailing interesting companies. Give it a shot!
Have you tried looking at venture websites? They often have a job board for their portfolio companies and I know for a fact that startups are desperate for interns<p>Some examples:
<a href="http://www.trueventures.com/jobs/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trueventures.com/jobs/</a>
<a href="http://500.co/startups" rel="nofollow">http://500.co/startups</a>
My experiences with my own startup have told me this: There is no right way to go about anything. There may be some "norms", but just be creative to get the job done.<p>Hell, just show up to some tech companies and badger them. If you're THAT dedicated to getting an UNPAID internship, they will take notice.
[Shameless plug.]<p>Go to job fairs like the one at upcoming ACM Reflections | Projections conference at UIUC. We have around 30 companies coming for our informal CS job fair. It's a great way to meet recruiters and get interviews.