Masters or job
I’m in a non coding role after leaving a company where I spent time in a rotational program and did 6 months of data science/ ML research work (not a sql/dashboard monkey, serious research org). Don’t like new role. if I want to pursue a career as a SWE and have an offer to return to my company and transition into SWE (at a company the level of PayPal, Goldman Sachs, Walmart) will I have trouble interviewing for FAANG? Have a degree in math and economics, CS minor. Or should I apply to masters programs. YOE: 2 TC: 250
Self evaluate if you're confident in your coding ability and also prepped for FAANG interviews. If yes, go for it. A masters would help with time to incubate and develop your programming skills. With your math background I'd imagine your logic and reasoning is strong.
This is helpful, thank you! I can definitely leetcode. Can complete mediums in <30 minutes now. Feel confident in continuing to improve and eventually pass the interview, primary concern is getting the interview w atypical background
Your atypical background would be very enticing to a lot of companies. Folks with math degrees have all the logic, reasoning, and discipline associated with arriving at a conclusion/solution. I'm rooting for you! Had a few friends with math degrees move into swe and just shined.
No need for masters. Grind Leetcode. Switch internally, grow your SWE skills, then move on. You already have strong math skills and CS minor. If you are really willing to go for a master, check online CS masters. GATECH OMSCS is solid. At least that is my plan as a DS :) And yes, I dropped from OMSCS…
Are you moving from DS to SWE? I thought DS is getting a lot more attention thanks to AI/ML trend
MLE would be easier for me. If I can find time and energy, I will give it a shot. Then, maybe SWE. DS is nice but MLE and SWE are more secure and have better TC.
Why don’t you like your current ML research role ?
Just get the job
You think I’d get FAANG interviews despite no cs degree?
Yes