Frankly I really don't know what id don't not in tech. Closest I van think of is some kind of mathematician but don't even know what those "jobs" look like. Academia might be another. But these are all tech adjacent aren't they?
Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
111–120 of 141 posts
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#112Doctor. Still want to explore "systems" to diagnose issues and build plans for improvement. When I was 45, I did briefly consider making the switch
As a med-school dropout, in his early 40s (left medicine two decades ago), I cannot even imagine having enough energy to even apply for medical school. At least in the United Hates of America, this is my jaded perspective . I became an electrician, instead, with stints IBEW and self-employed residential. Lots of money-making opportunities, but lots of unlicensed competition from handymen that "know just enough to be…
Are you self-employed now? Why stick with residential repair work instead of trying commercial or new construction?
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#113I imagine my answer will be a bit unique - I'm in tech because I like computers and I'm good at working with them, but I feel a strong conviction that if I'd had my way, I would've gone into some sort of sex work, likely either porn or pro-domme work. There was an article posted here[0] a few years ago by an escort reflecting on her experiences, and the conclusion, which spoke to the human element of the work, deeply…
We must repeal
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#114I run a website that helps people settle in Berlin. It's been my full-time job for a few years now, although AI is slowly killing websites like mine now.
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#115Earlier quoted context omitted.
As a med-school dropout, in his early 40s (left medicine two decades ago), I cannot even imagine having enough energy to even apply for medical school. At least in the United Hates of America, this is my jaded perspective . I became an electrician, instead, with stints IBEW and self-employed residential. Lots of money-making opportunities, but lots of unlicensed competition from handymen that "know just enough to be…
Are you self-employed now? Why stick with residential repair work instead of trying commercial or new construction?
I'm actually attempting to get into officework, somewhere. I can't do another twenty years of physical construction, whether in houses or factories.
>Are you self-employed now?
Yes, but I choose not to work regularly.
Fortunately, I have enough savings to not be too worried — presuming the economy picks up within the next few years (I can outlast this presidency, doing nothing).
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#116I personally believe that life is better if you do what you are naturally good at versus something you're interested in. I was lucky that I am both good at and interested in tech.
The LSAT doesn't feel too difficult, especially the sections based around logical reasoning. So if I went back in time and tech somehow wasn't an option, law is probably where I'd be
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#117This thought experiment insinuates that not working in tech means infinite money or resources, which I realize is not the spirit of the question, but in the event that funding is of no consequence... I would build sound systems. Huge ones, bigger than what's in my garage. Bone-shaking, yet clear as the pure blue sky I would open a video store / computer lab / hangout for skaters, nerds and misfits I would curate a li…
As a teen, I idolized guys like you who kept their passions alive. I’m 38 and hope I can keep mine up as well.
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#118Before I got my degree I was a machinist/ millwright and doing various things in between. Took a break after covid to go back for a little to decompress from tech but inevitably came back to programming. Love the work but hate the pay and toll it took on my body. Carpentry is fun too but metal is better.
I’ve looked into putting together a small shop, but you’re right. Startup cost is really high, pay is shit.
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#119Medicine, ideally Oncology. I only made that realization as an adult though.
Same. I’d like to get into medicine, but I’m 38. That ship has sailed.
Re: Ask HN: What would you do if you didn't work in tech?
#120Former tech worker here. I don’t know yet, and don’t have many skills outside of computer jockey. Can be friendly for short periods but not a people person. What do y’all suggest?
Handyman for the elderly