Ask HN: How to switch careers

[jayp08]

I currently hold a MS degree in CS and have been working for the last 4.5 yrs as software developer. I would now like to try something different. would going back to school for a MBA or MS finance be a good idea??

[homecoded]

What is it that you don't like being a software developer?It is kind of hard to completely do something else.

I have questioned my being a software developer also in the past. I seriously thought about going back to university to become a teacher. I decided against it. Mostly because of the financial losses this would have caused and because I just try to find outlets for my desire to teach in my current job as well as spare time.

It's usually a shame if you basically throw away 4.5 years of working experience to do something completely different. Unless you really hate what you are doing, I'd recommend trying to slightly steer you career into the direction you want to explore. Drastic changes often come with high losses.

[jayp08]

I dont have an aversion to programming...i 'm just unsatisfied with the job i have. And secondly dont want to program for the rest of my job. that is why would like to do something different.

[shortlived]

I'll be starting the transition to a new career over the next five years[1] and what really made me decide in my mind that it was something that will happen is by immersing myself in the subject for 2 years, as serious hobby outside of work. At the end of it, I still had huge enthusiasm and so now I'm ready to sink some money into it. Also, before you enroll into a program, do some research on the feasibility of transitioning from programming to X via some self-studying, a few courses and being in the right place at the right time.

[1] I've got a family so I can't just drop things and become a college student again.

[us]

I think a better question is what is it exactly you're trying to do. What are you passionate about. Stating you want an MBA or MS in Finance doesn't really say much. Can't provide good feedback like that.

[deafcheese]

If you're looking to work in finance, try switching directly into a finance job before putting down the money for a MBA or MSF. You'd be surprised how receptive the finance community is towards programmers.

[jayp08]

How do i switch to a finance job???

[deafcheese]

Look for a job in Sales and Trading. Bulge bracket banks love programmers and quant types for trading. It's hard to get an interview by just applying on a website, so you'll want to reach out into your network and see if you can get someone to pass your resume to HR.

A couple of websites that are helpful (though geared mostly towards undergrads): http://wallstreetoasis.com http://mergersandinquisitions.com

[zinssmeister]

I think you would want to stay in your current role and test the waters with what you think your new job would be.

Unless you have enough money to just jump ship and go try whatever.