> It's mainly the pay but I also sort of fell in love with software this year. I started learning JavaScript last year, learned about databases, servers, React

> It's mainly the pay but I also sort of fell in love with software this year. I started learning JavaScript last year, learned about databases, servers, React and Linux stuff. Loads of really exciting fun stuff! Programming is fun and exciting when it's a hobby or you are learning it. It's an entirely different beast when it becomes your job. There is a reason why burnout is so high in the tech industry. It's less "cool hacker" and more "code monkey". My guess is mechanical engineering was fun for you while you were learning it or it was a hobby. Then you got a job and it killed all enthusiasm you had for mechanical engineering. > Many places I apply to want people who have experience in software development or they want to hire a junior for some super low pay. Junior dev with super low pay? Where are you based? Maybe you should expand your search to other locations with better prospects? > I can't put the words "software developer" on my resume but I have written a lot of programs for my classes and in hobby projects. Why not? Put whatever you want, but just be able to back up your claims if it comes up in an interview. Also keep in mind that even if you start off as a poorly paid junior dev, you can rise quickly in an organization ( senior dev/team lead/etc ) if you are competent and increase your salary accordingly.