4 ms·
I had been programming since I was 10, but had decided that I had learned all their was to know (typical adolescent ego) so I decided to go in physics as it was
by spullara 6y ago
I had been programming since I was 10, but had decided that I had learned all their was to know (typical adolescent ego) so I decided to go in physics as it was what I thought would be the most challenging thing to do. Did well in undergrad, graduating in 3 years and got a fellowship at a good grad school. Studied theoretical high-energy particle physics. In the background of all this I was programming the whole way, worked in the computer lab, etc. Ultimately I decided to drop out of the Ph.D. program with my M.S. and dive into software engineering, my real love. Haven't really looked back since the choice to drop out. Still program everyday as a VC. Having your favorite hobby as your job I still think is as good as it gets. Even better if it grew up with you and is now lucrative and as exciting as ever.
- physicles 6y agoI have a similar story, except I never made it past physics undergrad and joined a big tech firm right after graduation. That was my dream job since I was 10, prestigious or not, and I loved the first five years there. But the prestige trap is real. My last career move was a big step down in prestige, but a huge step up in job satisfaction. I wish I didn’t, but I do miss working at a company that everyone knows. For me I think the key has been that my friends have a random assortment of cool jobs and don’t care much about working somewhere prestigious. I just don’t click with people who do. Because as much fun as it would be to play the comparison game, I just couldn’t shake that existential angst that none of that stuff fucking matters, and the only thing that matters is to be happy and do good to those around you.