[AlwaysRock]

Your first point is correct. It is hard to break into tech. For almost anyone. That does not make the fact that having a background that on paper makes one appear "smarter" makes it easier to break into tech any less true.

Your second point is also true. But when getting your first job is the hardest part many people would rather do 3 months to a year under someone they wouldnt want to work for and then move to a better role than continue being a waiter or actor for the rest of their career while they hold out for a first job that is ideal.

I agree that persistence is the key but it is easier for some backgrounds than others.