Finances are making me take an extended period off of my college education. In my current state, I don't feel fully qualified to be employed by an iPhone software company. While I work on getting things back together, I'd like to try an work for a software company for free in my local area (I'm going to college out of state and have to move back as well). The economy has forced employers to be very picky about who they hire, if any at all. Since I'd like to continue refining my abilities, I was wondering on what the consensus is on working for free. It can't be considered an internship, as I would no longer be in school..., I guess an apprenticeship is more appropriate.

Like I said, I don't think I'm qualified to be paid for my services, and I don't want to be. I just don't know how to ask, or if it's even appropriate to ask them to show me how to develop software in the real world. My thinking is that they would be willing to get some work done for free and if I prove myself, they could hire me. If not, there was no major loss. They get some free development, and lose a bit of time helping show me the ropes. I get either a job, or valuable experience that I need. The other alternative is that I try to work out things by myself on the iPhone platform, but that sounds terrifying.

I appreciate any input the community has to offer.