Hi all, I am a domestic student currently finishing my undergrad in data science. I think I eventually want to go into data scientist/ml research/applied research roles. I've been fortunate enough to receive several exciting opportunities, but now I'm struggling to decide which path to take. Here are my options: 1. Columbia MSCS: The prestige, network, and location of Columbia are hard to ignore, and a CS degree could provide a solid foundation in the tech field if I decide to move away from data. I want to do a thesis and I like the idea of an ML track. I would ballpark this to be around $150k. 2. UCSD MSDS: This program is appealing because of the thesis-based master's degree which to me legitimizes the degree more, and aligns closely with my current skill set and interests but pigeonholes me into data science again. Also, I am in-state so this would be around $80k for the entire degree. 3. Amazon RO: This is a return offer from Amazon. It's data-adjacent (bie) with an offer I am okay with. It's not exactly a Data Scientist or SDE role, but it's a foot in the door of a leading tech company. However, I've heard that advancing to a Data Scientist role without an advanced degree can be challenging at Amazon and similar companies, and I'm worried about becoming complacent in a role that doesn't build my technical skills. I could also potentially re-apply to master's programs if I decide this is not for me. TC: $130k My parents have offered to fund this degree but don't have any strong opinions about what I should do, or if the degree would be worth that much money. #amazon #masters
Amazon RO. The market is hellish for new grads, and there's not guaruntee it'll get any better. Get the new grad stink off of you and then consider grad school if interested.
Get some experience and then go back to school for masters
Amazon RO. Higher education in CS isn't very useful, and I say this as someone with an MSCS from an even higher ranked program. Also note that MS programs aren't really seen as that prestigious anyway since their bars to entry are much lower than undergrad, seen as cash cows. If you want to stay in school an extra year or two because you enjoy it, that could be worth it, but otherwise industry experience is far more valuable.
I have my colleagues from Ivy League but now we are on same boat, take the Amazon offer
https://twitter.com/browserdotsys/status/1742652146531610803
Take Amazon, experience matters way more than a degree, especially in this market. Reapply if is not for you.