I started working as a 3d artist, which lead me to working on that indie title that we won't mention with ducks
After discovering that my skills as a 3d Artist weren't so hot, compared to the next artist, I moved onto level design. With no job, for 6 months I grinded to learn the unreal engine, specifically UT2004. After creating 2 maps, which I know is pretty sad, I applied at nfusion for the environment artist, but found out that they liked my art test more due to my experience with how to use UT2004.
I've been trying to break into the gaming industry for years, with constant barage of rejection emails or no responses at all. If I hadn't of busted my ass for 6 months to get to a level where I would be noticed, I probably wouldn't be working here.
I tell everyone who asks me, I worked very hard and got myself to a level where I was making art/levels at the development level.