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by auslegung 4582 days ago
The advice I give to everyone is to be well-versed in programming, and to avoid debt. Congratulations, looks like you are already on that path! I'd also recommend a trade that is relatively easy to get into, such as HVAC, and/or learning a second language that will likely be very valuable if you want to travel as a programmer, or to use for a career in translation.

The value of a trade is that it gives you an alternative if sitting at a cubicle for 2000+ hours a year drives you crazy. Plus, it's always good to be helpful. You may want to look into becoming decent at auto repair or carpentry. Those are things that typically have a much higher barrier of entry, and a lower salary than HVAC, but they're both always a helpful skill.

The value of a second language is it opens up travel opportunities, and if you choose an economically important language (Chinese, German, British "English" [I have no idea what they're saying...]) or a politically important languge (Middle Eastern languages), the pay can be quite high for translation.

Many here might think HVAC is a terrible idea, and they may be right, but I'd still recommend finding a trade and making it a hobby, like I mentioned with auto repair or carpentry. Learning a musical instrument is also a great way to improve your life in general. But for the most part, sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders, and you'll do well at whatever you choose, so long as you stick to it.

1 comments

The funny thing is that I do have some experience with auto repair, HVAC, and carpentry. My Dad is a general contractor and every summer I would usually go help him with jobs. I've helped build a house, work on a custom deck for a pool, and quite a few other things. We have worked on my truck and car together. Being in Houston isn't the best for doing that stuff. Being in an attic where it's 90+ out isn't very fun. Thanks for the advice though!