I've been programming for about 5-6 years now, mainly focusing on game development. I know several languages including C#, JavaScript, and Swift, and I'm currently trying to pick up Python on my own since my community college doesn't offer it. I've been pursuing a degree in simulation and game design, but I'm 23 now and feeling the pressure to graduate. The program involves taking several courses, including some in art that don't interest me, and there's a final project with team dynamics that I still need to complete a few prerequisites for. As a part-time student, I'm struggling to juggle work and school, and I feel like each semester brings new challenges. I'm accumulating debt and working full-time, so the thought of quitting my job to focus on school isn't viable. I'm starting to question whether the degree will even help me when many people I know are struggling to find jobs, and I'm considering shifting my focus towards building a portfolio and making connections instead. Can anyone share their insights or experiences related to this?
1 Answer
Honestly, a degree isn’t a golden ticket anymore for landing programming jobs. Even those with degrees are having a tough time finding roles, so without one, it can be even harder. Many places still filter resumes based on degrees, which doesn’t always seem fair, but that’s the reality.
Yeah, I’m worried about that too. A lot of my friends who graduated are still stuck in their old jobs or moving back home because they can’t find anything. Should I just focus on graduating as soon as I can, even if I have a decent job right now?