I'm considering studying computer science and pursuing software development, which is genuinely my strongest passion. I spend a lot of time practicing coding problems and building projects, but constant negative discussion about the job market has made me afraid that getting hired is basically random.
I understand that entry-level hiring is more competitive than it used to be, and I'm worried about making a major commitment to a degree, taking on possible debt, and spending years studying without a reasonable career opportunity afterward. How can I separate realistic concerns about the industry from exaggerated pessimism? Has anyone else struggled with this uncertainty?
The negativity has also affected my mental health badly, sometimes to the point of suicidal thoughts. I'm trying to figure out whether I should continue toward CS without letting online discussions convince me that my future is hopeless.
4 Answers
The frightening part for you seems to be the feeling that your future is outside your control. You can’t control the economy, but you can control your preparation: choose an affordable education path, avoid taking on unreasonable debt, build skills consistently, seek internships, and keep backup options open. Also, software does not have to be your only source of identity or happiness. If these thoughts about suicide are active or feel difficult to control, contact emergency services or a crisis line in your country now, and tell someone close to you today.
A lot of online pessimism comes from people who are frustrated after failing to find work, so it can make the situation look more universal than it is. A degree by itself is not enough, but strong knowledge, a useful portfolio, communication skills, teamwork, and a willingness to keep improving all help. Try getting offline too—attend meetups, volunteer at technical events, and talk with people actually working in the field. Real-world conversations are usually more balanced than anonymous predictions.
The market is definitely more competitive than it was, but competitive does not mean impossible. If software development is something you truly enjoy, keep building your skills: learn the fundamentals, make substantial projects, practice problem-solving, and understand how to use AI tools effectively. You do not need a guarantee of employment before starting—you need to give yourself a realistic chance to succeed. Most importantly, please take the suicidal thoughts seriously and talk with someone you trust or a mental-health professional. Your value is not determined by a career outcome.
There is real risk right now, especially for new graduates, and entry-level hiring has fallen significantly compared with a few years ago. That situation may improve by the time you graduate, though, and it is difficult to know how much of the change comes from AI versus broader economic conditions. Software engineering is not a guaranteed path anymore, but millions of people still work in the field and technology is not disappearing. Treat the market as a reason to plan carefully, not proof that the entire profession is doomed.
That’s exactly what scares me—the outcome feels different from school or work, where I can at least influence it by doing the work. The possibility of graduating with debt and no opportunity makes the uncertainty feel unbearable.