Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by purple-leafy 642 days ago
I am an Electrical Engineer who transitioned into Software Engineering at the start of my career. I’m also under 30.

For context, I failed most of my Computer Science papers first go (undiagnosed ADHD) and I absolutely Hated (with a capital H), Software at uni.

Once I graduated though I picked up Python and discovered I actually LOVE programming and computers - the way uni was taught and my immaturity really put me off initially.

I’m successful as a Software Engineer, have sold my own Software, have built an AI app recently, but I have had some knowledge gaps.

I entered Harvards CS50 courses and loved them! You could try that instead of a masters? One can basically finish a full course in 2 weeks (on top of work and life)

I’d highly recommend starting there, rather than the mountain that is a Masters.

But if you are blasting through the courses, then consider a Masters at that point?

I have also been considering a Masters, but you have to ask yourself why?

- For the knowledge gained?

- For the cred?

- For employment opportunities?

I’d say you can get all of that with a typical software career if you also study on your own time outside of work.

But if you absolutely can’t shake the thought of doing a Masters, how about doing it part time so you can still have healthy finances?

Best of luck!