This is probably going to be an extremely unpopular opinion, but it's based off my experiences. SV-tech culture was attractive in the mid-late 90s when new thi

This is probably going to be an extremely unpopular opinion, but it's based off my experiences. SV-tech culture was attractive in the mid-late 90s when new things were actually being built and innovated, but today it seems many are just rent seeking near-monopolists that exist to sell ads. Working for a near-monopolistic advertiser with stupid hiring practices just isn't something I would want to do, or dedicate my life's work to. If you want to use your talents in a way to make humanity better in some small way, advertising isn't it. I would recommend going into another industry and company that values tech skills, but doesn't cargo cult like SV type companies do. Almost all the code you write will probably matter and be used by people. In my 20+ years of development, I've had a total of one project shelved, and that was due to an M&A. You have a pretty good chance of creating new products as well rather than just doing maintenance tasks (although you will do plenty of that too). Most SV type companies seem overcrowded and mostly out of ideas, at least significant ones. There are of course exceptions, but like I said, I see a lot of rent-seeking from the big boys. If you're just into it for the money, SV type companies are probably your best bet, at least for a couple of years until you're financially set. Also, it helps to have at least one big name on your resume. You can earn plenty of money in other industries too.