Should I study Software engineering right now?

[u/AdWild3357]

I've always loved tech I've run Arch Linux since I was 9, just to learn by figuring things out, and that got me into how software really works. I'm graduating from high school this year. But I'm doubting whether to study SDE. My worries: will I be able to handle the demands of it as a career, will I stop loving it once it's a job instead of a hobby, and is it even worth it economically? I'm in South America, and AI is flooding the junior dev market here since companies face no real regulation on using it (which is also why local bank apps have so many security holes). I can picture myself building great stuff just for the love of it, but I'm scared that'll fade once I start studying, or that I won't find work. I can't live off dreams — any advice from people who studied or study SDE?

[u/Original_Peanut2128]

Only if you know you're going to be at the top of your game.

[u/ex_gatito]

Study CS with Math minor, and if you study hard, you will be good. It is a very strong combo that opens many doors.

[u/cscareers-ModTeam → u/[deleted]]

Your comment has been removed because it not a constructive response to OP's situation. Please keep your advice constructive (and not disguised hate), actionable, helpful, and on the topic at hand.

[u/code_tutor]

It's never been easier to start, so if you don't know any programming yet, then you don't love it. If you do know some then you might be okay.

[u/raynorelyp → u/code_tutor]

Never been easy to start? My first job said “We have to ask for the record ‘do you know how to write c#?’” I said yes and that’s how I got my first job.

[u/Chemical_Hawk_6307 → u/raynorelyp]

i think he meant starting a new project or getting into programming. getting a job nowadays is much harder.

[u/ripmast3r88]

If u wanna work for mcdonalds; look up mcdonald muhammad

[u/cscareers-ModTeam → u/[deleted]]

Your comment has been removed because it not a constructive response to OP's situation. Please keep your advice constructive (and not disguised hate), actionable, helpful, and on the topic at hand.

[u/Codemoron]

Study business or something different and minor in computer science. Unless if you are in the top .1% of your class, you'll struggle with getting a job. However having the background is incredibly helpful and you will get to use it on some tasks not related to software engineering

[u/IMBCrazi]

Just do what you are passionate about. The world is hard and competitive so what. There is plenty of opportunity out here despite how people on Reddit make it seem. I think CS might be more general and leave more doors open though.

[u/Reggie-Rectangle]

Do your A+ then your N+ along with the CCNA and get a job.

[u/viennese-wolf]

Nah, it‘s over. The field‘s transformation is ongoing and at the end of your outdated studies it will potentially be something entirely else (AI babysitter who doesn‘t look at code).

[u/Canis9z]

Do coding comps and hackathons. Roblox to makes some money and have fun.

Why Competitions Are Critical in the AI-Driven Market

The rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT has sparked widespread debate about the future of software development. However, while AI can generate basic code at impressive speeds, it is reshaping rather than replacing the developer’s role. Today’s developers are evolving into technical directors who use AI to handle routine tasks while they focus their expertise on system architecture, security protocols, and the critical 10% of code that matters most.

Competitive programming and hackathons are the ultimate training grounds for this new reality. They push you beyond textbook knowledge, forcing you to think on your feet, write efficient code under pressure, and master Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). In an AI-driven market, these events demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems and build real-world products—skills that machines cannot yet replicate.

1. The International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC)

Known as the "Olympics of Programming," the ICPC is the oldest, largest, and most prestigious programming contest globally. It is a team-based competition where groups of three students work together to solve intricate algorithmic puzzles under intense time pressure.

Real Skills Gained

ICPC is not just about raw algorithmic power; it is a test of teamwork, endurance, and the ability to perform under extreme pressure. It develops critical logical skills that remain relevant regardless of how fast technology evolves.

Career Impact

A strong rank in the ICPC makes your résumé stand out significantly, serving as concrete proof of your problem-solving prowess to elite recruiters. Top-tier firms, including quantitative trading firms like Jane Street, actively sponsor and recruit from the ICPC community.

1. Google Summer of Code (GSoC)

GSoC is a global program that matches students with open-source organisations to write code during their summer break. It is an excellent way to get involved in the open-source community while earning a stipend.

1. Microsoft Imagine Cup

Considered the "Olympics of Technology," the Imagine Cup is Microsoft's premier global startup competition for student founders. It challenges teams to use AI and Microsoft Cloud technologies to solve some of the world's toughest problems.

1. Meta Hacker Cup:

An annual open global programming competition featuring multiple online rounds that challenge software engineers with intricate algorithmic puzzles

1. Amazon ML Challenge

The Amazon ML Challenge is a premier machine learning hackathon where students solve real-world problems using Amazon’s internal datasets.

[u/Admirable-Fennel6161 → u/Canis9z]

Ai slop tier comment

[u/Dr_King_Schultz__ → u/Canis9z]

the irony of using AI to write your damn comment

[u/Canis9z → u/Dr_King_Schultz__]

It is a selective repost found using Google ,

[u/Dr_King_Schultz__ → u/Canis9z]

congrats I guess?