advice regarding job opportunity

[blue bed]

Dear conceptart.org,
I've posted on this forum some time ago, I'm now considering applying for an illustration/cartooning (probably BFA, though several people advised trying Master's, I'm not sure that's possible) programme to a US art school as an international student from Russia and I'm at loss. I've got an engineer's degree (BFA+1 year of practical work) at Moscow Oil and Gas University, about 2-3 years of freelance illustration experience and no art education.
So, my main concern choosing between all the various art schools is in job opportunities. I'm considering SVA in NY, but people tend to say it's pretty tough to find a full-time job in that area. NY pricing is also a major issue.
I'd love to hear any opinions on that. I know it pretty much depends on the skills etc, but still, perhaps it's a better idea to try LA or some other place with more job opportunities regarding my status (sponsoring work visa etc)?
My website is www.bluebed.net and http://illustrators.ru/?a=author&id=418&w=1098
Thanks in advance

[Seedling]

If you’re going to be looking for work as a freelance illustrator, then it shouldn’t matter where you live. You’ll work at home and communicate with the people who hire you via phone, e-mail, and postal service.

[blue bed]

Seedling, that's the problem - I have to work full-time to stay in the States legally after graduating.

[Seedling]

Oh, sorry, I misunderstood.

Hmmm. I know there must be a range of full-time jobs for illustrators, but I’m mostly familiar with the games industry, so I’m having trouble thinking of other examples. I bet someone else here could offer you suggestions.

[sweetoblivion314]

I don't know anything about the international stuff but i know that gallery artists are listed on their taxes as owning a private business (probably true for freelance illustrators as well). Isn't their someway to stay over here with a private business?

[blue bed]

Private business is a bit overcomplicated and I'm not sure it requires quite a bit of financial support. The 25k a year SVA charges seems pretty much to me.