I've been learning tech skills through various courses but don't have a formal education. I've studied HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PostgreSQL, bash, and I'm quite good at Python—almost done with Harvard's online Python course. I even built a website using WordPress and took an SEO course from Duke University. Despite this, I'm struggling to land my first job and even willing to take unpaid internships. My relative insists I should get a degree in computer science, believing my lack of one is why I'm not getting hired. Should I invest the time and money into an online bachelor's degree, or is it not worth it? I'd appreciate any advice or criticism on my situation.
3 Answers
A degree can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and math skills essential for CS. Sure, you can self-learn a lot, but some parts of the coursework, especially the vital ones, are best learned with guidance from professors. Plus, having someone to check your work can make a big difference.
Getting a computer science degree can definitely help you land your first job, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket and it can be really expensive. If you’re looking for cheaper options, consider community colleges and then transferring, or focus on networking at local meetups. The job market’s really tough right now anyway, so persistence is key!
I totally get that. I’m outside the US, so community college isn’t an option for me either. I've done a lot of GitHub projects already. Sometimes I feel like I'm just spinning my wheels and wasting time.
I hear you on the struggles of self-learning, especially in math. Trying to grasp complex topics without someone to guide you feels a bit like a shot in the dark. Have you considered reaching out to any local universities for networking, even if you aren’t officially enrolled?
Yeah, it’s insane how many applications come in for basic roles these days. Maybe shift your focus to building projects that solve real problems instead of just coursework? Projects that showcase practical applications could help catch employers' eyes. Also, volunteering sometimes opens doors that regular applications can't.