The speaker shares their personal journey, highlighting the support from their middle-class family and the challenges faced when starting a career in New York. They emphasize the importance of finding opportunities in various industries, not just in art, and offer advice on how to break into these fields. The speaker encourages finding 'cracks' or opportunities to make a mark, whether as an artist or in any other profession. They conclude with general advice on starting a career and the importance of persistence.

Who were some of the speaker's close friends mentioned in the video?

• Eric Fischl and David Salle

• Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo

• Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat

• Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh

What kind of jobs did the speaker have during college?

• Journalist and editor

• Musician and actor

• Chef and waiter

• Taxi driver and art supply store worker

What does the speaker say about the role of family in starting a career?

• Family support is not important

• Family support can be crucial

• Family support is always guaranteed

• Family support is irrelevant

According to the speaker, what is a common challenge when starting a career in a big city?

• Finding affordable housing

• Dealing with traffic

• Breaking into the industry

• Learning a new language

How does the speaker compare starting a career as an artist to other professions?

• It requires less effort than other careers

• It is completely different from any other profession

• It is similar to starting in journalism or publishing

• It is easier than other professions

What metaphor does the speaker use to describe finding opportunities in a career?

• Climbing a mountain

• Finding cracks in a wall

• Crossing a river

• Building a bridge

What is the 'job' of the wall according to the speaker?

• To inspire you

• To guide you

• To keep you out

• To support you

What does the speaker suggest is the key to making openings in a career?

• Networking with influential people

• Finding the issues and feelings

• Working hard

• Studying extensively

What does the speaker say about the nature of finding opportunities?

• It is unique to each industry

• It is the same across different fields

• It is easier in creative fields

• It is only possible with luck

What other fields does the speaker mention as examples of starting a career?

• Medicine and law

• Website and video company

• Teaching and research

• Engineering and architecture