[MrFoof]

I was you 12 years ago.

The odds are still against you. You will lose opportunities due to credentialism. The best bet is to become better than your peers and be in the top 5% of the talent pool. When you work with someone who really knows their shit, shadow them.

The better bet is to eventually go independent once you know you're more towards the top of the heap. Years ago, a McKinsey subsidiary ultimately ruled me out due to a lack of degree. Nowadays they're a customer and have no problem subcontracting me out, because "I run my own business" and a proven track record is just as sufficient as the degree they otherwise look for.

[sliverstorm]

I was you 12 years ago.

And it's even worse now.

[cheesylard]

Wait, really? I was under the impression that a college degree for programmers is less important nowadays.