Expert: Leigh Ishikawa - 10/26/2007

Question
Hello,

For your information, I'm a fresh grad from University, majoring in Computer Science.  I did some JAVA, Python, Scheme, PROLOG programming and intense useless theory during my last 3-4 years at University.

For programming jobs, it needs many languages, like java, .net, c#, sql and I can see many terms that I don't know what it is...
It seems I'm not ready yet, and some of my friends go to college/self-study for those other programming languages.

I also interest in networking and database, I have little knowledge on those now, but I wonder if I should start my IT path in networking or database instead?  I heard that database make more $$ in a long-run is that true? but then again, I heard that there is NO entry level database position, so people may enter this field by taking the programmer or networking path before getting into database (I don't know if it's true)

The only down side about networking is the fact that an entry level networking job is help desk(call centre work) or need a driver license to go on-site to "fix" computers/servers.  I personally hate talking on the phone, doing call-center may be a nightmare for me. But I'm interest to become a "network administrator"(which is non-entry level network position).  I know that it's impossible for me to get a network admin position as my first networking job :p  

For my current situation, which career path should I take?  Software developer(programmer)? Networking? or Database?

Also, which career path may have a better opportunity/salary/future in the long run?

Thank you  

Answer
Hi Victor,

Sorry for the delay, but I've been very busy.

It's very difficult to say which career will yield the most salary.  Being in top of any field is the best.  And there is no such thing as a 'guaranteed job'.  As you get to the top of any field, jobs are harder to come by.  You can even price yourself out of the market.

Technology is a very difficult field to get into because as you have observed, entry level jobs are difficult to come by.  That is due to the fact that you are competing against people who have lower salary requirements from India, China, and other cheaper countries.

That said, everything depends on what you are interested because this will give you the best chance.  That is my philosophy.  And as you have just come out of college, it's too early to tell what you will like.

As for starting in support, during tough economy,  that is a very common thing to do to get your foot in the door.  That is what I did to get started.  Take the opportunity to get started and be proactive.

Personally, the best opportunity is what is often presented to you.  Keep an open mind, and be alert for an opportunity that you can take advantage of.  There's only so much that you can plan and beyond that, you have to go with the 'flow'.

Good Luck!

L