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This is a bit tangential to the conversation, but relevant: I have an art degree. I was pushed into getting any degree. I'm a part of that same generation that
by RUG3Y 10y ago
This is a bit tangential to the conversation, but relevant: I have an art degree. I was pushed into getting any degree. I'm a part of that same generation that was told to go to college at all costs, even if you don't know what you want to do with yourself. Fast forward 11 years, and I've just finally paid my student loans off.
Now I'm in this situation: I'm not doing a whole lot with art, and I'm trying to break into software development. Do I need a CS degree? Any opinions? I'm thinking about going back to school but the thought of possibly having more debt is not something I'm interested in. I'm having a hard time finding even junior level jobs that are interested in people without degrees. I'm a fairly competent programmer as-is, self taught.
- stinkytaco 10y agoFreelance? Start contributing to OS projects and consult? I mean, if you're trying to break in without existing credentials or work product, I would have to think you'd need to create some work product and connections.
- RUG3Y 10y agoI have some creds + experience but I'm looking to get more. I haven't cracked freelancing yet. Places like Odesk seem like a mess and I haven't had good results.
- GFischer 10y agoDon't go to Odesk. There's plenty of advice on how to freelance here on Hacker News. I've actually been on both sides of the table - as a freelancer I never got work through Odesk, I was actually hired through Hacker News once, and when it comes to hiring freelancers, I've recruited through my network (recommendations, etc.) and haven't considered Odesk. If I were to go freelance again I would make it known in the local entrepreneurship community.
- stinkytaco 10y agoWell, I'm looking for some experienced Perl devs, so if that's in your tool box, we should talk.
- pillowkusis 10y agoGive them concrete examples of your work. Why are you being turned down? Definitely do not need a degree but you will have to change your job-seeking process to account for that fact.