What should I do with my Bachelors of Science in Computer Science?

Question

PLEASE HELP. I graduated from college two years ago with a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science. When I goto interviews, I am asked "what kind of programming do you do for fun?" Since when is programming fun? When I answer "I don't program for fun, I only know what I was taught in school," it seems like I am automatically disqualified.

Should I teach? If so, what kind of extra schooling do I need. Should I pursue a career in mathematics? I've looked for jobs in this career field but have found nothing but teaching. Please Help, I'm very lost right now as to what direction to take my life.

I've worked so hard all of my life to give myself a chance to succeed. I was raised in a very poor home and have no type of connections, which it seems like is how most people get their jobs. I really want to successful in life. I don't want to be a loser.

Answer 1

It sounds like you just need a few, basic interviewing skills.

What you said,"I don't program for fun, I only know what I was taught in school."

What they heard: "I'm not a 'go-getter'.  I don't even like computers."

What you should say: "I haven't had a lot of spare time for personal projects lately.  But someday, I'd love to work on (fill in the blank)."

What they will hear: "I've got a lot of things going right now.  I'm a positive person who lives life to the fullest."

Write down every question you can remember from every interview you've had, along with the responses that you gave.  When you are done, go back through and rephrase each and every response with a positive answer.  Interviews are about attitude, not your degree.  Anyone can get a degree...it doesn't always make them the right fit for a given job.

Answer 2

Let's ask some different questions and see if we can get some different answers.  

1.  What financial goal do I WANT to create?  this is not what you think someone will pay you but what you want to make.  I.E. your dream salary.  There are no limits.

2.  What career do I WANT to do for the next 1-3 years?  Again keep your mind open, dont' answer based on experience or education.  What do you really want to do and have wanted to do for a long time.  

The reality is you can create any job you want right now.  You just have to ask the right questions and take the right action.  I read an article today about a company that made $1500 a second in the last quarter of 2007.  Ask yourself if you can make $1500 a year, a month, a week, a day, an hour?  The answer is most undoubtedly yes to all of those.  

why because you are bound by nothing but your own imagination and your desire to make a change in your life.  I'd love to help you some more... go to my website www.stepintoyourdreamjob.com (it's being tweaked and should be back up in a day or two) sign up for my daily emails.  

Best

Nolan