[sotojuan]

Like scotty79 says, at least you know what you're doing in those ten years. Perhaps an easier analogy would be a lawyer or engineer (ABET degree + coop)? For programming, you get the following "advice":

* Get a degree

* Don't get a degree, go to a bootcamp/teach yourself

* Do side projects

* Get an internship

* Network and go to meet ups

* Learn algorithms and data structures

* Practice brain teaser questions

* Learn these languages

* Learn these languages' frameworks

I'm exaggerating and people can get hired by not know all (or any!) of these, but you get my point. It can be a confusing and overwhelming path both for people who want a career change or are graduating from university.

For some, the path to being a doctor is "easier".