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I didn't finish my college degree after I got into programming professionally and I honestly am disappointed I didn't. I can write software but I feel a lot of

I didn't finish my college degree after I got into programming professionally and I honestly am disappointed I didn't. I can write software but I feel a lot of times I know how things go together the way they do, but not the why. There are times when I wish I knew the theory behind things instead of just knowing the syntax. I think the takeaway is that unless you're going to a really expensive school for the alumni network, find a low price school with good teachers and go for the knowledge. The degree at the end is a nice bonus but having that theory to back up your practice will take you to the next level.

jeffdavis 15y ago
CS is one of the fields where you really can get a good education outside the traditional system. I feel like I did. Don't let anyone tell you that these things are scary and hard, and you need a university to guide you. I hear MIT's OCW is quite good now, though I haven't used it much myself. Might be a good place to start. Honestly, there are many great resources out there; just pick something and get started. Cheap schools are a good idea, and I completely agree with that. But it can be hard to work and learn on a schedule; many people would do much better if they are able to learn at their own pace.
sebkomianos 15y ago
I am graduating from a University of London college in a few days and I can guarantee you it's not worth it. Whatever you are interested in, pick a book and study about it. If you are having trouble, go online and ask. What more can a college give you?
- ascendant 15y ago
  A degree. No matter what people tell you it will open doors for you. After 10 years in the industry I can tell you it will get you in the door in certain places.
  - sebkomianos 15y ago
    That happened 10 years ago, sure. And still happens in a lot of places but these places just follow: Once some major voices go "Yeah, higher education is no big deal", these places will start considering other things. I've been sending emails about job opportunities as crazy lately and I am really glad that the majority of the people I talk to ask me for samples of my work in terms of coding and or project design rather than instead of exams results. And it's sad that I don't have a lot of things to show because I've been thinking that I'll be okay just by doing the silly coursework.

jeffdavis 15y ago

CS is one of the fields where you really can get a good education outside the traditional system. I feel like I did. Don't let anyone tell you that these things are scary and hard, and you need a university to guide you. I hear MIT's OCW is quite good now, though I haven't used it much myself. Might be a good place to start. Honestly, there are many great resources out there; just pick something and get started. Cheap schools are a good idea, and I completely agree with that. But it can be hard to work and learn on a schedule; many people would do much better if they are able to learn at their own pace.

sebkomianos 15y ago

I am graduating from a University of London college in a few days and I can guarantee you it's not worth it. Whatever you are interested in, pick a book and study about it. If you are having trouble, go online and ask. What more can a college give you?

ascendant 15y ago
A degree. No matter what people tell you it will open doors for you. After 10 years in the industry I can tell you it will get you in the door in certain places.
- sebkomianos 15y ago
  That happened 10 years ago, sure. And still happens in a lot of places but these places just follow: Once some major voices go "Yeah, higher education is no big deal", these places will start considering other things. I've been sending emails about job opportunities as crazy lately and I am really glad that the majority of the people I talk to ask me for samples of my work in terms of coding and or project design rather than instead of exams results. And it's sad that I don't have a lot of things to show because I've been thinking that I'll be okay just by doing the silly coursework.