I recently graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in MIS and I'm desperately looking for a new job. I have no real world tech experience and I need to get some. I would like to build a portfolio of programming projects, but I don't know what to create that would be of value. Any suggestions? I have java, VB.net, and Python. I have been working through some of the exercises at the end of chapters in my textbooks, but they aren't very hefty projects (like a small slot machine program). Any areas I should concentrate on that are really hot right now? Also, how important is volunteer work? I'm afraid to sign up for a volunteer project that I would probably not be able to stick to if I am able to find paid employment. But, I'm worried I won't find paid employment if I don't sign up for some volunteer work. Nutty
