If your primary concern is making 35k+, there are many other jobs / careers out there with better opportunities for growth and advancement. Not to say there is anything inherently wrong with working in the gaming industry... I'm just pointing out that if you really want to make 35k+ doing something you enjoy, there are plenty of other options. The other thing you have to realize is that if after 10 years of dealing cards you desire a change (relocation, unhappy, etc.) your resume will have a giant dead spot. Other than loyalty and stability, a dealer that has dealt for one year is identical to one that has dealt for ten years to a potential employer. What job can you imagine applying for out of the gaming industry that you will boast about your ten years as a dealer?