Thank you, I'm familiar with your area, my family are from No Cal. So, my best friend didn't get her first job as a graphic artist until she'd already gotten her AA then she went on to get her BA. But I do remember that her first job was a small engineering firm. You may want to check smaller companies or continue to do freelance work in the meantime until you have your AA.

Paul, you really need to state your location so we can make accurate suggestions. The "tri-valley Bay Area" is...where? State and city please. Everyone here is so helpful, please let us all know where you are. :)