<pre><code>I am very, very, very confused as to how I should proceed with my studies. I am caught between the crevices of computer science and occupational therapy-- both subjects are squeezing me with equal force and making my gut cringe. I'm already late in my schooling (I'm 23) and I can't decide what I should pursue. I'm in my second year of Biology with a minor in International Relations, but I also like programming. I want to make video games...I program JavaScript in my spare time and I do enjoy it...but I don't know. Is it really worth it to work 9-5, five days a week, with incomprehensible competition and stress? Occupational therapy has part-time work and I volunteered in an office and thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
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<p>So, I guess my question is, can a computer science major currently working in the field please enlighten me on how satisfies with you are with your decision and your work? Is it stressful? Do you have time for family and friends and hobbies? Do you get to travel a lot? </p>
<p>If you like logic, you will be happy in Comp Sci. Comp Sci is not just programming - you can be in testing, production support, networking, security, project management, program management… You can switch between these professions… I have both BS and MS in comp sci and I like it.</p>
<p>Speaking from the sidelines - a Silicon Valley Network Engineer (liberal arts educated) who’s worked with a lot of software engineers - I’ve seen varied work/life balance outcomes. I’ve seen perfectionists run themselves into the ground and I’ve known top level senior software engineers who have time for fatherhood and even playing regularly in a band. I’ve known some who had total free reign to travel the world and check in their results to git hub and hop on conference calls as needed. And I’ve known guys barricaded in their cubicle. I admire the people that actually studied Comp Sci as I often feel so improvised. I really think it’s a leg up if tech is your thing. </p>