[speedplane]

A lot has changed in the past 5 years or so. Anecdotally, 5 years ago I'd bet that 90% of programmers either had a CS background or something very similar (ECE or Comp. Eng.).

Today, I think that number is down to 50% or maybe even less. So many of my friends who went to excellent schools but had degrees in Biology, Biotech, Physics, and even some social degrees (including a pianist) now are full-time programmers.

I agree with your sentiment though; if you don't need a CS degree to get a CS job, then maybe try something else during college. Take programming courses at your local coding bootcamp.

[52-6F-62]

To add some anecdotal support: I land in a similar, but different camp.

Self taught programmer (started at a young age out of interest), working in the field in sort of a generalist dev position at a large media company. I'm out of practise with my math, but trying to kickstart myself to return to university for studies in Physics. Maybe a bit of a reversal?

Programming jobs are a great practical employment solution, but personally I feel compelled by my drive to see behind the curtain too much to settle. As well, to seek out further innovation on the application side I have this sense that there needs to be far more crossover than there is presently.

All this and I started out studying English at U of T, and didn't get to finish (financial reasons). And here we are.

[speedplane]

Just two points:

> Programming jobs are a great practical employment solution

I entirely agree, but I wouldn't discount a "great practical employment solution." Compared to the alternatives, programming jobs often pay better, have a much better lifestyle, and are far more gratifying. Very few get exceedingly wealthy, but it's a very respectful position where you get to use your intellect.

> personally I feel compelled ... to seek out further innovation on the application side I have this sense that there needs to be far more crossover than there is presently.

Ideally, everyone would be an expert programmer AND an expert in something else. Having a strong command of a programming language is much like having a strong command of the English language. It's a valuable skill, but far more valuable if you have something interesting to say.