HN Explorer

Ask HN: Recent unemployed CS grad what do I do?

2 points by eerichmond33 ↗ HN
I graduated with a bachelors degree in computer science eight months ago and still haven't been able to find work.

I honestly have no idea what to do moving forward. Getting a job in CS seems to be out of the question.

Do I go back to school and/or change careers?

The worst part is I really enjoy programming – I found a job I like and can't find employment.

Resume for reference: https://elir.net/static/resume.pdf

8 comments

[ 3.4 ms ] story [ 25.8 ms ] thread
slater
Work on sideprojects.
eerichmond33
I have a pretty good portfolio already. I'll build something if it seems fun, but I don't think having more side projects will get me a job.
AutistiCoder
Even with my extensive work experience, I got nowhere. So I just gave up and became a YouTuber.
rvz
In 2025, you have to be a bit creative to get the role you want now. You have experience in AI, so that is a great start.

If I were you I would do this:

  1. Find a "AI" startup from this list here: [0]

  2. As a side project, completely clone and compete on features with AI. (Seriously)

  3. Monetize and launch it to everyone.

  4. Repeat (1), until one of them takes off and brings in $$$.
You then have made something that makes money. Do it again. If one doesn't work out try another one. You've got access to the same AI tools they do and there is at least one startup on that list that is at risk of getting duplicated by you.

Who knows, you might not need a role at all or the competitor will just hire you on the spot. The question is, do you believe that you can market it better than them?

[0] https://www.ycombinator.com/launches

eerichmond33
Thanks for the suggestion. Are you doing something like this yourself? If not, where are you working? :)
cc101
I may be way off base as I have been out of the job market for 20 years, and you may already be way ahead of me. But, you could try this:

Use your employed college friends as a way to get around the recruiters and HR. Locate them (particularly those who graduated a year early) and discuss how you might offer something to their employer or who else might hire you.

Good luck!