[Sigia-l] starting out in the business

[Rachel M. Murray]

Hello


Forgive the naïve newcomer questions...I’m starting out in the field and am a 
little perplexed by what I can call myself.  When does one ‘become’ an IA?

I’d *like* to end up working as a usability analyst and IA person.  Right now 
I’m currently taking courses towards the Information Design Certificate 
Program at the Faculty of Information Studies, University of Toronto and I 
just completed a certificate in web design from Centennial College.  I have an 
honours B.A. in philosophy and liberal arts as well, but no HCI or MLS type 
degree.

The question is, what can I call myself on a business card? I have knowledge 
about all the software, and a good Web site and portfolio can demonstrate 
that.  The question is, do I wait until my certificate is done before I start 
calling myself an IA? If I start applying for memberships in the appropriate 
associations, pay my dues and stay knowledgeable about IA, usability, trends 
in the IT industries and apply for jobs in the area (and do some freelance 
work in the field when I can find it!), can I consider myself an IA?  And how 
does one address a lack of a HCI background to employers?

Appreciate any advice – email me offline if you’d prefer.

Thanks,

Rachel
rachel.murray at utoronto.ca