Looking to become an apprentice in Dallas Area (Texas)

What do I need to do to become an apprentice? I've already called over 30 shops in my area, none were accepting or the number was dead. I really want to know what would make me an attractive prospect apprentice. What do I need in my portfolio? I have a gallery online but it is mainly digital art and anthro. Are there certain things I should draw to come across as a good choice? I see swallows, nautical stars, text, tribals, hearts, kanji and portraits the most but I don't know if I should draw things like that for my portfolio. What type of medium should the things in my portfolio be on? Most of my work is digital, on printer paper or on cardstock but I don't know if this is the prime choice to have my portfolio on. What type of medium should my porfolio be in? I do digital, pencils, marker, prismacolor pencils, I have never worked in airbrush and am not very learned in oil or acrylic paint. Are apprentices paid, is it a free exchange or do apprentices pay the artist? I'm not desperate for money i'm desperate for training, I can afford to pay an artist. I went to an Arts Magnet High School for two years, specializing in visual art and am now a freshman at a local community college. I'm majoring in character animation and plan to work in animation if tattooing falls through. Also if you know of ANY artists accepting apprentices in the Dallas/Fort Worth area please give me their number or email, I am very desperate.

sorry this double posted!

nothing no one?

If you really wanted it you would not have a 'fallback option' simple as, its not a bandwagon you jump on and off. Can you even draw freehand? You talk about all your stuff being digital media only, Can you even draw? Your calling up people and asking for an apprenticeship? Fuck why didnt 300 other people just do that....oh wait they did, someone REALLYlooking for an apprenticeship would KNOW not to do something like that, They would know that they need a massive portfolio of hand drawn flash, sketchbooks, photos of paintings they have done, You don't even say if your tattooed man? Your a freshman right? I'm going out on a limb. You have none or three. Small ones that are hidden. You haven't even paid your skin dues. To show your dedication. My Advice. Give up now. Rather then later when you realise its not as easy as Miami ink makes it look.

Hey don't give up. My husband and I would like to talk with you and see your work. We are about 2 hour from Dallas, but if you are willing to come down one day then we are willing to take the time to give you some great advice. If interested just send me an email and I will get in touch with you. Cristie Russell

hello my name is chris judd and i am writing to find out about where your shop is located so i can come and talk to someone about the position for the artist i have been a tattoo for abou 19 years and i have a complete proffesional portfolio... please send me your e-mail address or you may contact me at (817) 881-3655 thank you , c.judd