Dear HN,I am a soon-to-be dad. I am looking forward to it, and we have prepared as best we can.
However, one thought is nagging me.
I have finished my bachelors degree in computer science, and I am onset to start my master degree in the fall.
However, I have very little job experience. I have decent grades, enjoy studying and have held a TA position. But I have never worked in a CS-related role professionally and do not consider myself a very good "developer".
I am afraid that I will not be able to work as good (or long) as my peers on school, or on side projects and internships; and that, due to my lack of experience, will have future employers turn me down.
I don't know; maybe I am a bit too pessimistic.
I am based in Scandinavia for reference.
Anyone with experience having a child, before your career took off? Or similarly, while in school?
Any advice or words upon the matter is appreciated.
Best wishes, Lasse.
▲Odds are it won't make a huge difference - everyone has a life to live outside of work. Even if it does cause some career stagnation, any decrease in your career because of having kids is going to be a good thing. Absolutely nobody gets old and then says, "I wish I worked more and spent less time with family."
reply▲Yeah, that resonates with me.
Value-wise, I would describe myself as more family-oriented than career-oriented.
I guess I am just worrying about finding a decent job along the road, also to provide for said family.
Thanks.
austin-cheney2 hours ago
[-] I became a father at 24 and had both of my kids before I finished college. I didn't start programming until age 28. I turned out alright, and I am based in America where the costs of childcare and medicine will make you homeless.
reply▲Thanks for another perspective. I should be grateful for many things. Comparison the thief of joy and all that.
reply▲I would say that rising a kid is going to teach you many things you would never learn at school, and those social skills can make a difference in job interviews. If you're able to take care of a family then you certainly are a good team player.
reply▲Thanks, man. That's a good point.
reply▲lordkrandel2 hours ago
[-] This is the right age of the world to do that! Congrats, happy life! You'll have a busy year and then a lot of chance to grow your career!
reply▲I wish I had kids earlier. More than 1.
reply▲Thanks for the perspective.
reply▲People should do the right things at the right age. Perhaps one day in the future you’ll be very grateful to yourself for being brave now. Come on, mate—you’re already all set; you’re just here to get everyone’s approval.
reply▲You're right about the last paragraph. At least some sort of affirmation.
reply▲Your baby will not be a burden to you; they will be a source of joy. Whilst they bring you happiness, you also have a responsibility
reply▲That's a good perspective. I will do my best.
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