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Discussion on: What's your advice to someone over the age of 30 considering a career in software development?

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sally profile image
Sally

"Ultimately, I'd recommend NOT going into software development after 30 unless you REALLY want to be a software developer"

  1. Why not?
  2. Why would someone go into software development and not really want to be a software developer? That seems like a poor move at any age.
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Cecelia Martinez

There are some people that get into it because they hear you can make six figures without a degree/etc. I agree it's definitely a poor move at any age, it just tends to be more associated with those switching industries mid-career.

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sally profile image
Sally

I like to say being a software dev is like being a professional sportsperson. You need to enjoy it; there has to be a passion there. It would be unusual to be hired if you were only 'in it for money' yet lacking skill and passion. If you somehow manage to get hired despite hating every second of it, you'll burn out fast. Tech by its very nature - a bit boring, lots of sitting, frequent frustrations - will filter out those that hate it or are indifferent to it early on.

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ceceliacreates profile image
Cecelia Martinez

Definitely agree! My advice would be more for those on the fence because they heard it's good money but don't really like it, before they pay for a boot camp or other courses.