Ask HN: CS Student Looking For Guidance

[erniejimz]

I am a CS Junior and I feel like my coding skills are good enough to get a full time job. What are your guys thoughts on leaving school?

[pradn]

Having a college degree is an important social signal in the eyes of most people. If you're only going to be in college for an another year, I'd say go finish the degree. Plus, the college experience isn't something you can recreate later in life. Take advantage of it while you can.

[pradn]

You'll also have the opportunity to try new classes and fields within CS. It's hard to get a wide view of CS otherwise. A solid foundation will open up more options in your career.

[erniejimz]

My college life is different though. I was in the Marine Infantry for 4 years. So I came out older than everyone already. The only college "thing" I do is go to the library.

[rajacombinator]

Stay in school, coast if you want to, work on personal project and have fun and socialize. You will probably never have as much free time again. I got out after 3 years and looking back I think it was a mistake.

[erniejimz]

Thanks Raja, I think im going to stay in.

[albedo]

College is also a really good place to meet and work with people who could eventually become your technical cofounders, the scarcest ingredient for most startups.

[erniejimz]

Good point albedo, I have met a lot of interesting people.

[jacalata]

What makes you think that? What kind of job?

[erniejimz]

I am currently interning at a defense contractor and I do more than the full time people. So I am confident in my skills to get a full time job.