live south of monterey -jobs- college of law (Salinas, Ojai: apartment complex, employment)

[Pakalolo]

Hi Everyone,

I'm tentatively planning on moving to Monterey or Ojai (from CT) at the end of the summer, and am leaning towards Monterey. I will be working and attending law school part-time. I need a place to live and a beach view is not necessary at all.

My biggest problem is that I have a boxer and want to avoid an apartment complex. If I could find a little cottage or something with the smallest of yards, that would be great. I've looked on craigslist several times and I there are not many places that are pet friendly.

I would prefer to live south of Monterey, would love some basic cabin or something near Big Sur but I think that's out of the question. I would also like to live in Carmel Valley because it seems close to parks and I love to ride road/MTN bikes and have a place to go with my boxer.

Also, where are the best places to look for jobs? I mean, I see some paralegal jobs that were paying like $12 an hours, which doesn't jive with $1000 rents. I would like a job in the legal or environmental industry if I can find one, but I don't, as of yet, have any employment lined up.

I will avoid East Salinas, but will consider the south or southwest parts.

Any tips on housing and jobs would be great.

Thanks.

[Mauri]

My brother in law goes to law school in Monterey. He did have some networking opportunities through faculty to find an internship/ job while in school. But, the company he did land a job with, went under within a year. He has had a rough time finding a job to keep up with the cost of living. Monterey is beautiful but not many entry level opportunities. Definitely focus your energy on securing a job!
I don't mean to sound negative and shoot your dreams but just to prepare you to work hard for what you want.