π΄ββ οΈπ #10: Is college worth it? π€
Hey Pirate π΄ββ οΈ
π§βπ« Is college necessary? This is one of the most frequently asked questions I receive. My response has remained consistent: while not a requirement, it is generally preferred. Many companies value candidates with a comprehensive educational background. Reflecting on my own journey as a software engineer, I affirmed in a previous newsletter that I would still choose to pursue this path even if I could go back in time. Consequently, I asked myself whether I would attend college again. Surprisingly, my answer remains βyes,β but with one condition: affordability. πΈ
π°οΈ College is undeniably costly, both in terms of money and time. In my videos, such as βHow I would learn to codeβ and βThe fastest way to learn coding for free,β I have emphasized that a college degree is not a hard prerequisite for becoming a software engineer. However, I do not imply that it is worthless. Instead, I offer free coding curriculums and recommend bootcamps like Springboard as viable, more affordable alternatives. π
ποΈ While it holds true that most companies prefer candidates with a 4-year computer science degree or equivalent, exceptions are often made for those with work experience. Iβll be candid; landing a job at prestigious companies like FAANG can be challenging for bootcamp graduates or self-taught students without any work experience. Nonetheless, the good news is that it is possible to work your way up from humble beginnings. I have personally encountered a senior software engineer at Amazon with a literature degree and a former navy officer at Microsoft, among many others. In fact, most FAANG engineers did not start their careers at FAANG; they climbed the ladder over time. πͺ
π³ However, if circumstances permit, I still advocate for the traditional route of acquiring a college degree, given it fits your budget. π¦
πͺ My responsibility is to empower you with a comprehensive list of options, enabling you to make a fully informed decision about your path. Yes, a degree-less engineer may face a competitive disadvantage. The bar may be higher and the race potentially longer. However, remember that you can still compete. And if youβre up for the challenge, actively participating in the race is far more rewarding rather than spectating from the sidelines. πββοΈ
π«₯ To be completely transparent, I do believe it is fair for degree holders to have a competitive advantage. They have invested both time and money to reach that position. However, a college degree is not a free pass into the field, nor is it an exclusive privilege reserved for those with one. Regardless of the path you choose, it takes serious effort and commitment to break into the industry.π‘
β Now, let me outline my recommended ways to become a software engineer, listed in order of the industryβs preference:
Obtain a computer science degree or equivalent, preferably from a four-year college. Although more expensive and time-consuming, it is worth the effort. ποΈ
Attend a coding bootcamp, such as the ones offered at Springboard, where I have previously mentored. These bootcamps are more affordable and shorter, typically lasting less than a year. While they may not cover the fundamentals as extensively as universities, reputable bootcamps will equip you with the practical skills sought by employers. This is my strongest recommendation for those who canβt afford college. π
π If you're seeking additional resources to supplement your learning journey, feel free to explore my recommended courses or delve into the free coding curriculum available on my website. π
ποΈ Thatβs it for today. Thank you for reading, and Iβll see you all next week. Arrgh!
PK π
P.S.
π As an affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. Using these links is the best way to support me at no cost to you! π
π About Me
π‘ Subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already! π youtube.com/@piratekingdomβ
π Check out my Bio!β
π§βπ» Job Success
ποΈ Springboard Bootcamps - Enroll in ANY Tech bootcamps and get a $1,500 DISCOUNT when you use the code PIRATEKINGDOM. I was a former Springboard mentor, so I know their programs work! Courses: Coding, Data Science, Machine Learning, Cyber Security, UX Design
β¬οΈ Pathrise - Get personalized 1-on-1 career mentorship from leading professionals at companies like Google, Meta, Uber, Amazon, and more! I was a former Pathrise pro mentor, so I can vouch for their programs! Courses: Software Engineering, Product Design, Data, Marketing, Sales
βοΈ Taro - Expedite your career growth by getting promotions and pay raises faster! Get access to company- and level-specific compensation data. 20% OFF using my Discount Code PIRATEKING
β‘οΈ Turing - Get elite REMOTE US software jobs from your home country WITHOUT needing a VISA! Earn a competitive salary that surpasses your local market average! Join NOW for FREE!
π Resume - Download my software-engineering resume for free!
π³ Blog - Check out my blog for the latest news and tips on a software-engineering career.
π» Coding
β΅οΈ Recommended Courses - Online courses on coding, web development, cloud, data, and more.
π Recommended Books - My suggested books on coding, DSA, interviews, projects, and more.
π§βπ» Free Software Development Curriculum - My free entry-level coding curriculum using Python.
π Free Web Development Curriculum - My free web full-stack curriculum using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node, and React.
γ½οΈ LeetCode
π PK's Cheat Sheet - A one-page compilation of commonly used coding tips, tricks, techniques, and their Big-O notations.
πͺοΈ Templates & Tricks - A concise summary of essential formulas, templates, and key concepts, frequently encountered in coding challenges.
βοΈ Study Guides - My recommended LeetCode study order based on the topic's significance, relevance, and frequency in actual coding interviews.
π° Free Stuff
π Webull - Join today and get up to 12 FREE fractional shares! Invest in stocks, and ETFs, all commission-free!
πͺΆ Robinhood - Sign up and choose your FREE stock today! Buy and sell stocks and crypto commission-free!
π Deals - Take a look at my offerings for excellent deals, discounts, and promotions!
βοΈ Gears
ποΈ Productivity Couch Setup - We should all work comfortably. To me, thatβs the best productivity. π
π₯ YouTube Setup - You donβt need fancy equipment to start a YouTube channel. A few hundred bucks are more than enough to get you started. π
πΉοΈ Gaming Bed Setup - Iβm sure many of you have tried projecting onto a wall before; then why not the ceiling!? π€
βοΈ Quote of the Week
βThe best investment you can make is in yourself.β
