Ask the Friendslist: Where to focus to develop as a programmer?

[tcepsa]

I love computers. I especially like programming them, finding new and clever ways to make them do things. My favorite course in college was Introduction to Microcontrollers, in which we did all sorts of really fun things with an F1 board running a Motorola HC11; I really enjoyed playing around with the low-level stuff, knowing that this command was causing this particular bit to be set this particular way and having a very specific impact right down to the physical state of the board (it wasn't quite a butterfly, or a magnetized needle and a steady hand, but it felt like the next best thing). So now I'm trying to get an idea of what would be best for me to do to continue to pursue things in that direction and get paid for it. I figure the way I'm juggling my life right now, I could probably make the time to either focus more on keeping current with new technologies or pursue a higher degree, but probably not both.

[Poll #1198243]

Comments

My two cents

[divinerose.livejournal.com]

There is the option to pursue a higher degree while working.

But really if you want to keep writing code, you aren't going to get what you are looking for in grad school, I think. What you want is very applied, and traditional grad school will give you some of that with a large chunk of theory throw in. I'd really suggest talking to an admissions counselor for the grad school at work. Our part time program, from what I understand, is VERY applied with less theory. That might be the best avenue to explore atm, just talking to them and expressing your interest and seeing what they say.

[arashinomoui.livejournal.com]

I don't know coding and development - but I do know my side of the world - the current trend is certification in various technologies or organizations - for example Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) versus getting your masters; however 5-7 years ago, everyone needed a master's. These things come and go in cycles.

So my suggestion to find the position you want to hold and see what requirements they have - are they just looking for X-years of experience? Then great, you can go gets your master's (don't do the Ph.D); and then focus on technologies. If they are looking for certifications, then go get those. At least in the much small Info. Assurance field we can have people pick them up by the dozens.

[pauldf.livejournal.com]

I'd say that what's important is staying current with emerging technologies. Going for a CS Master's can be a convenient mechanism to do that; however, it's something you can only easily do once (I think), so I'd say that that's not the right thing to do after only 5 years. Blogs have made that easier in some ways, though they can easily become a time sink.

Personally, I've found that the places I really want to work for don't pay much attention to certifications for hiring people who code.

[belushi81x.livejournal.com]

Other: do what will make you the most happy... only you can tell me what that is...


totaly useless answer, I know...