Hey everyone! I'm a master's student in computer science, and lately, I've been second-guessing my career path. I got into programming because I love building things, but now I'm questioning the purpose behind my projects. Most of the tech jobs available seem focused on enhancing corporate efficiency, which doesn't feel meaningful to me. I'm really hoping to contribute to something that serves people directly, where I can see the positive impact of my work. I'm not aiming to change the world, but I'd love to engage in something useful and kind, rather than just creating conveniences. I have a few questions: Are there technical jobs out there that align with this goal? Have any of you found fulfilling, people-centered development roles? And are there communities (like Discord, GitHub, or even in-person) that focus on building tech for this kind of purpose? I'd appreciate any thoughts or experiences you can share! Thanks for taking the time to read this! 🙏
4 Answers
Yeah, there are definitely jobs that allow you to make a real difference. Just remember, someone has to make money for you to earn a living. I’ve worked in roles where a change I made impacted millions of people. If you want to feel good about your contributions, consider donating your time to a nonprofit as well.
You might want to check out 80,000 Hours. They offer free advice on finding meaningful work that aligns with your values.
Sometimes, company missions are just marketing. I’ve seen friends take lower-paying jobs in companies like Tesla, driven by their mission but regretting it later. It might be better to focus on finding a job with a healthy work-life balance and volunteer in your free time for what truly fulfills you.
Look for companies that have missions you believe in. It can be a bit tough to find the right fit, but it's worth it to build things that matter to you.
Could you give more details about your friend's situation?