Early career librarians have some difficult choices to make when choosing the path before them. Public libraries are by far the most visible and easiest avenues of the field to access, and are typically filled with myriad opportunities for the intrepid librarian even before pursuing an MLIS. Academic libraries however, are barely visible to those beginning their programs, and despite DEAI approaches, may not even be considered by some new librarians. Experience in a public library is not enough for search committees to warrant taking a risk on an academic library applicant who does not have previous publishing or presentation experience, especially if the institution grants tenure-status to librarians. But what constitutes "Entry Level" in today's hiring process? How do job applications muddy the water with required skills? How does one get these skills? And what if search committees were willing to take a risk on new graduates who may or may not have the necessary experience? Drawing from my own experience as an early-career librarian, I've had the fortunate opportunity of being in the right place at the right time; with a handful of opportunities that have allowed me to grow where I otherwise would have been overlooked. This session will provide ideas for engaging and encouraging potential new hires, sharing your wealth of knowledge as an academic librarian with new librarians, and making job postings more transparent to future applicants, creating a more open environment for all.