Hacker News Board Hacker News, browsed like a classic message board
Live data from Hacker News

Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

news.ycombinator.com

Post reply on HN
Print view View original

11–20 of 67 posts

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#11

Post by arethuza »

mechanical_fish wrote: post #4

From what I've seen, architects go to school, really arduous school, for years, after which they continue to work constantly, much more than 40 hours per week. I believe they get paid less than developers, have less job security -- and, yes, sit at a computer all day. But what do I know? All I can suggest is: Don't apply to design or architecture school until you've talked with at least three working architects or de…

That's probably not a bad rule when thinking about any career - actually speak to people doing it before deciding.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#13

Post by wooUK »

mechanical_fish wrote: post #4

From what I've seen, architects go to school, really arduous school, for years, after which they continue to work constantly, much more than 40 hours per week. I believe they get paid less than developers, have less job security -- and, yes, sit at a computer all day. But what do I know? All I can suggest is: Don't apply to design or architecture school until you've talked with at least three working architects or de…

I was an architect student now turned developer. The thought processes are very similar between the two disciplines however I personally find developing more rewarding.

In architecture you are considered a 'young' architect if you are in your fifties. That means you spend your best years designing underground drainage systems (that nobody will see) or garage extensions for pittance and long hours and minimal job security.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#14

Post by Travis »

matthewking wrote: post #2

I went through a brief period where I was convinced I wanted to be a carpenter, specifically making furniture. I've also worked as a builders mate and roofer in the past both of which I enjoyed and all of which settle my desire to create something. It seemed better to be building something that actually existed in the real world, not just on the internet. These days though I'm just trying to make enough money in the…

I think this is the best advice -- work in something where you can create. To me, that's the core of my interest in software dev -- creating, working, making something. Carpentry sounds like it could be very rewarding.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#16

Post by jagjit »

matthewking wrote: post #2

I went through a brief period where I was convinced I wanted to be a carpenter, specifically making furniture. I've also worked as a builders mate and roofer in the past both of which I enjoyed and all of which settle my desire to create something. It seemed better to be building something that actually existed in the real world, not just on the internet. These days though I'm just trying to make enough money in the…

I hear this very often - I am working at a job which I dont want to do till I achieve a financial goal. For folks who know what they are passionate about, I wonder if it is worth it in the long term to postpone following their dream. Especially in a country like US or Uk, where standards of living are pretty reasonable for most professions.

I for the most of my life did not even know what I really like - by the time I figured out I was already 33. And it becomes very tough.

I know very few people who are convinced about what they want to do in life. Such conviction almost seems like a privilege which comes with a duty to follow your dream. Best of luck with your plans.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#17

Post by vaksel »

mechanical_fish wrote: post #4

From what I've seen, architects go to school, really arduous school, for years, after which they continue to work constantly, much more than 40 hours per week. I believe they get paid less than developers, have less job security -- and, yes, sit at a computer all day. But what do I know? All I can suggest is: Don't apply to design or architecture school until you've talked with at least three working architects or de…

My mom actually did the backwards flip, when we were in Russia she was an architect, was part of the team that designed the building we lived in.

When we came to the states, she got a job as a VB Programmer. Got pretty good at it too.

So it's probably possible to get into architecture if you have the analytical mind for programming

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#18

Post by blackguardx »

I am an electrical engineer and in the same boat as you. While being an engineer can be rewarding, the sedentary aspects kill the reward. It is physically draining.

To remedy the situation, I decided to get a Ph.D. and become a professor. I am in my first year of grad school right now. While I know that professors have to do a lot of paper writing and grant writing, most of their work isn't necessarily computer related.

I am also thinking about going into semiconducting materials and devices resarch, which entails a lot of lab work building novel electronic devices. My previous dream was to be an IC designer, but I don't want to spend my life running SPICE simulations.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#19

Post by izak30 »

My Dad is an architect in a small town (40k pop) and services much of rural south eastern ohio. He almost never sits at a computer during the day, and most of his drafting is done by draftsmen on datacad.

I'd be happy to privately give you his e-mail to answer questions.

Here's what I know that might help: Because he's in a small town, working on relatively small projects (typically under 1M), he often acts as an overseer to the actual building process as well. He keeps boots and overalls in his truck, and spends most of his time away from his desk. It's my understanding that most architects in major metros, or at big firms are fairly disjointed from the construction process.

The point is, you could be a developer without spending your time at a computer (you could sell, manage, consult, or teach). You can be an architect without drafting on autocad all day (choose your market/niche).

You could learn to be an industrial designer or process engineer, and then go work in a production facility, or you could work in excel and CAD all day.

Re: Ask HN: Alternative careers for a developer

#20

Post by santry »

Having spent the last 15 years as a developer, I'm now working toward a career as an opera singer (I'm a tenor).

Admittedly I find it difficult to identify many similarities between opera and software development. People often make a connection between music and mathematics, but for me the non-mathematic aspects of opera are what I find most attractive. The sheer thrill of dramatic expression through controlled screaming is intoxicating. And instead of my work living unseen in the dark recesses of a multi-tier architecture, I'm put, quite literally, center stage and in the spotlight, with immediate feedback (applause or boos) and recognition.

Post reply on HN