Hey everyone, I'm a 22-year-old who graduated last year with a degree in Computer Science. Currently, I'm working at a startup that doesn't pay well and despite my best efforts, I struggled to land a solid tech job over the past year. Luckily, I have no student loans and live at home, which keeps my expenses low. However, I can't shake the feeling that I've messed up somehow. There's so much talk about how CS is dying and AI is taking over, but I'm still passionate about computer science and enjoy building side projects. I often find myself suffering from Imposter Syndrome, feeling inadequate compared to my peers who are doing much better. I'm eager to start my own startup, but the fear of failure is paralyzing. I feel lost and lack direction and mentorship. I really want to create something that excites me and helps others. What should I do next? Any advice would be appreciated!
5 Answers
You're just starting out, and it's all part of the journey! You've got minimal experience, so don't stress too much about pay—focus on growth. Startups can have a lower pay grade, but if they succeed, you could become quite valuable in a niche area. If you're looking for mentorship, larger companies tend to have structured programs that can help guide you more effectively. Just be prepared for the distractions that come with corporate life.
Networking is key! Attend meetups or connect with engineers online.
Remember that it's a marathon, not a sprint. It's okay to feel lost; it's all part of the learning process. Embrace the challenges and don't be afraid to fail. Each setback is a step to greater experience. Focus on what you can improve, and soon enough, you'll be able to progress.
Don't overthink it! Sometimes you just need to step back and live a little too. Balance is important, and maybe even find some joy outside of coding—it helps prevent burnout.
I could definitely use a break. Any suggestions for ways to unwind?
Take time for hobbies or go out with friends—it really does help!
Here’s a tip: when you ask your colleagues questions, show them what you've already tried. It really helps build rapport and shows you're willing to learn. Your job isn't to know everything; it’s about the effort you put into understanding things. If you're feeling confused, take time to research and work through problems. That struggle is part of becoming a better programmer.
I try to do that already—it seems to work well!
Sounds good! This help makes me feel like I’m not lost after all.
It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed, especially at the start of your career. Don't buy into the fearmongering that AI is going to wipe out developers. As a junior dev, you're not expected to be super productive right away—give yourself some grace. Focus on understanding the business side and learn how your coding can solve real problems. Getting comfortable with Git and keeping your processes organized are key. Consider having a casual chat with your team lead or more experienced developers to understand how the company operates.
Thanks for the insight! How do junior engineers at big tech companies compare to those in startups?
Good point! I definitely need to have those conversations.
I’d prefer the startup route early on. How can I find mentors in that environment?