So You Want to Be a SOFTWARE ENGINEER | Inside Software Engineering [Ep. 3]

Summary

This video debunks myths about software engineering, highlighting its reality and differences from computer science. It explains the journey from university coursework—ranging from calculus and coding basics to software foundations and electives—to the diverse career opportunities in the field, such as AI, cybersecurity, and app development. It outlines the pros and cons of being a software engineer, emphasizing long hours and technical competition as challenges, while celebrating flexibility, high salaries, and the satisfaction of solving complex problems. Ultimately, it offers a thorough, motivating guide for aspiring software engineers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Software engineering and computer science are different fields. While computer scientists focus on theoretical research and new technologies, software engineers apply programming skills to create deliverable products.
• 😀 Software engineers work on a wide range of applications, from websites and apps to cyber security and space missions, making it a highly versatile and expansive field.
• 😀 A significant portion (27%) of software engineers are self-taught, showing how accessible coding can be through the internet and independent learning.
• 😀 University coursework for software engineers includes Calculus, statistics, discrete math, and programming languages like Java, Python, and C++.
• 😀 The software engineering curriculum includes foundational topics like computer organization, data structures, algorithms, digital logic, and networks.
• 😀 Key courses in software foundations help students build a general understanding of the field, and many work on projects involving app and website development, which are popular for entry-level developers.
• 😀 Elective courses in the final phase allow students to specialize in their chosen software engineering concentration, leading to a Capstone project that mimics real-world challenges.
• 😀 Different software engineering fields offer lucrative salaries, such as machine learning engineers ($135k–$160k) and cybersecurity engineers ($125k), but passion and dedication are key to breaking into competitive fields.
• 😀 The demand for software engineers in areas like AI, app development, and cyber security is growing rapidly, with plenty of job opportunities and the flexibility to work remotely.
• 😀 While there are cons like long working hours, pressure, and the need for constant learning, many software engineers consider these aspects as part of the stimulating and rewarding nature of the job.

Q & A

What is the difference between software engineering and computer science?

While both fields involve programming languages, concepts, and techniques, computer science is focused on theoretical research and the development of new technologies, such as AI. Software engineering, on the other hand, applies these programming skills to develop practical, deliverable products like websites, apps, and devices.

What are the core tasks of a software engineer?

Software engineers primarily type lines of code into an IDE to accomplish various goals. This can range from simple tasks like printing 'Hello World' to complex projects like applying Quantum Computing to space missions. They develop algorithms, websites, apps, and work on cyber security, signal processing, and much more.

Do software engineers need to attend university to become successful?

Not necessarily. About 27% of software engineers are self-taught, thanks to the accessibility of coding resources online. However, attending university provides a structured curriculum and a deep understanding of software engineering concepts, which can help in entering the industry and improving career prospects.

What subjects do software engineering students typically study in university?

Software engineering students study a combination of introductory topics like Calculus, Chemistry or Physics, and introductory coding classes. They then move on to software foundations, which include computer architecture, data structures, algorithms, and digital logic, followed by elective courses to specialize in a particular area.

What is the purpose of the Capstone design course in software engineering?

The Capstone course allows students to work in teams to complete an entire engineering design process, simulating real-world scenarios. They tackle challenges like limited computing power, learning new languages, and handling unexpected issues, ultimately creating a marketable product that enhances their career skills.

What are some popular career paths in software engineering?

Popular career paths include AI and Machine Learning, Cyber Security, App and Web Development, and Embedded Systems. Each field has different job responsibilities, pay scales, and growth potential. For example, AI engineers make $135,000–$160,000, while Cyber Security engineers earn around $125,000 annually.

What are the pros of becoming a software engineer?

Some of the main pros include flexible work options (remote or hybrid), the ability to work on innovative technologies, lucrative salaries (average base pay of $142,000 in the US), and the satisfaction of contributing to technological advancements.

What are some cons associated with a career in software engineering?

Some cons include long working hours, high-pressure situations, and potential physical discomfort from sitting at a desk for extended periods. There's also significant competition in the field, especially due to the accessibility of software engineering education and opportunities.

What are the challenges software engineers face in terms of competition?

Due to the high accessibility of coding education, software engineers face stiff competition, both in university admissions and job markets. Many individuals enter the field with varying levels of experience, making it essential to stand out through strong coding practices, portfolios, and continuous learning.

Why is it important to keep learning throughout a career in software engineering?

Software engineering is an ever-evolving field, with new technologies, tools, and practices emerging regularly. Engineers must constantly learn and adapt to remain relevant, solve complex problems, and innovate in the fast-paced tech industry.