Job Hunt

[Vishakha Ahuja]

Hi everyone,
My qualifications are :
1)BSc (in Occupational Therapy i.e. Paramedical)
2)Advanced Certificate in PC Applications from NIIT
3)Advanced Diploma in Programming
I'm also a SCJP2.(That's all I know about Java)
I've working experience as an Occupational Therapist, but none as a Programmer. I'm currently in US(Northern Virginia) on dependent visa with my husband. Can anyone tell me, what chances do I have to get a job as Jr. Java Programmer, keeping in mind that I need sponsorship also?
I've been sending out e-mails(Resumes) to companies, recruiters etc since last 2 months with not even a single telephone or personal interview. What strategy do I use for my job-hunt. Also can anyone guide me as to how to write a cover letter (I haven't sent out any cover letters because I don't know what qualities to stress on in my letter.
All suggestions are welcome !!
Some one has suggested in this forum to work on server-side Java.
I need some help on how to go about it, I mean where do I begin and where do I go next?
I appreciate your replies.
Vishakha.

[Peter Lyons]

Speaking from my own experience getting an entry-level position:
Be sure that YOU call THEM. They won't call. I sent out about 100 resumes, and got one phone call. But I called just about every one of them, and that's how I got the interviews and finally, a job. I don't know about the visa, since I live here. Maybe someone else can answer to that.
Best of luck to you!