[bicx]

This. And while learning is important, I really am getting tired of the bullshit line about everyone needing open-source side projects (and this is coming from a guy who enjoys side projects). How many other professionals need side projects for legitimization? My mechanical engineering friends build stuff too, but no one's expecting them to bring in a home-made contraption for their interviews.

[JazCE]

Fully agree. I wouldn't discount anyone for not having a github project. I have a life outside of work, i enjoy going out and being with friends and family. I spend most of my waking hours during the week at my machine coding, it's not something I want to do at the weekend, and that doesn't make me a bad coder.

[Qworg]

Anecdote: A guy who wanted one of our open mechanical/embedded positions came in with something he built and programmed. It was super impressive side work and helped him stand out.

Sadly, when you're competing against the world for many positions, you need every possible advantage.