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For professionals who’ve worked in both computer science and data science, how did you decide which path to commit to? I’m worried about choosing wrong because I want a career I’ll genuinely enjoy but also one that will give me long‑term financial stability. How did you navigate that uncertainty when you were in my position? #Spring26

I’m a high school senior planning to major in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics at San José State University. I’m really interested in both software engineering and data science since I enjoy coding, statistics, and working on robotics projects. My biggest worry right now is choosing the wrong path, because I want a career I’ll genuinely enjoy but also one that provides long‑term financial stability. Any insight from people who’ve been in a similar position would really help me.

computer-science coding choosing-a-major college-majors data-science
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Chin Lee’s Answer

Hi Amarachukwu, remember that there's no single "right" path for your career. I started with a degree in IT and Computer Science and spent 8 years in the technical field before switching to business because I wanted something different. As we grow and meet new people, our interests and passions can change. The work environment and company culture can also shape your choices over time.

The key is to keep an open mind, stay curious, and always be eager to learn. You never know what exciting opportunities you might discover! When you follow your passion, work feels enjoyable, and success will naturally follow when you do your best.
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Laila’s Answer

Hi Amarachukwu! It's great that you're thinking about your future so early.

You don't need to decide right now. Choosing CS + Applied Math keeps your options open because software engineering and data science are closely related. Follow what interests you, try internships in both fields, and you'll find your path. Even if you change your mind later, it's an easy switch.

Both careers pay well, so let your passion guide you. You're on the right track!
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Terry’s Answer

Starting with a combination of Computer Science and Applied Math is a great choice. It's a safe and rewarding path, especially if you enjoy coding, statistics, and robotics.

Here are some encouraging points:

- You don't have to choose between software engineering and data science right now. The early courses in both areas are quite similar, covering topics like programming, data structures, and math.

- Software engineering offers a broader range of entry-level jobs. There are more opportunities to start in this field compared to data science.

- Data science is a powerful field, but it often requires deeper knowledge in statistics and sometimes further studies. Roles like data analyst and machine learning engineer are common starting points.

- Your interest in robotics is a great advantage. Robotics combines software, math, and systems, making it a good reason to keep both majors if possible.

- Financially, having skills in CS and Applied Math gives you flexibility. If one area slows down, you can shift to roles in software, data, machine learning, robotics, or technical product management.

- The key is not about picking the perfect job title, but about gaining experience. Internships, projects, and real-world work are more important than deciding on a specific path too early.

Here's how you can make the most of your first year:

- Focus on building a strong foundation in programming and math.
- Use Applied Math to enhance your understanding of probability, statistics, and optimization.
- Try out both paths through projects and internships.

Think about these paths:

- Software Engineering: Great if you love building products. It has a strong job market and good long-term prospects.
- Data Science: Ideal if you enjoy working with statistics and insights. It offers great potential but can be harder to enter at the start.
- ML/Robotics: Perfect if you like combining math, coding, and real-world applications. It's a smaller field but very promising.

Remember, you don't have to choose your path in high school. Your interests will become clearer after gaining some experience. Those who succeed often start by building strong technical skills and then specialize.

If you're unsure, consider this:

- If you love creating and launching products, lean towards software engineering.
- If you enjoy analyzing data and finding patterns, consider data science.
- If you are passionate about physical systems and interdisciplinary work, think about robotics or machine learning.

In conclusion, choosing CS and Applied Math gives you time to explore and secure your future. It's a smart move for both personal satisfaction and financial stability.
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Matthew’s Answer

You have some fantastic insights here. As a Director managing both Data and Software Engineers, I see how these roles connect and complement each other. Focus on what you love in your early years. Spending time on what you enjoy will help you excel as you start your career. When I interview junior candidates, I look for drive, determination, and passion. Both paths offer great careers, and it's common to explore different areas as you progress.
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Brooke’s Answer

Something that helps me is making a pros and cons list for each option and continuing to add to it over time—even uncertainty can count as a con.

Also, look closely at the classes required for each path. Start with overlapping ones while you decide. Talk with professors or education advisors at school to ask more questions about the paths and the classes involved. As you get more information, add pro to the class options that draw your attention / interest. It can also help to write down what you don’t like about each path—any strong “con” can help point you in the right direction.

I actually went through something really similar. I had to choose between mathematics and computer science, and it even came down to picking the right school because one didn’t offer both options and each school was known for a different option. I went through the same process—thinking it through, weighing everything—but ultimately I followed the pull I felt toward one path and fully committed. Looking back, that decision ended up being one of the most pivotal choices I made growing up, even though I didn’t realize it at the time.

At the end of the day, use your classes, some research, and trust your gut. If one option feels more interesting, there’s probably a reason.

I also wouldn’t put too much weight on the financial side when choosing a path—both options can likely provide stability. What matters more is picking something you genuinely enjoy long-term. When you actually like what you do, you’re more motivated, more consistent, and more likely to stick with it. That kind of engagement can lead to growth and opportunities that end up benefiting you financially anyway.

Brooke recommends the following next steps:

Do your research. Start looking at classes for both options, talk to professors and advisors on campus.
Use your course work to gauge interest. Pay attention to classes you naturally enjoy or feel more engaged in.
Trust your instincts. If you feel yourself leaning to one path or finding it more interesting, there’s usually a reason. Trust your gut.
List out what you don’t like. Write down the items that you absolutely know you dislike and would not want to deal with on a day to day. A strong no or con could help you decide as well.
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Steffen’s Answer

You will not know for sure what is the right path until you tried it. I've had colleagues who switched from running a hotel to becoming a data modeller in an insurance. I would suggest to weight up pros and cons (the advances in AI would be a big con for junior coding roles at the moment, unless very specialized) and if that doesn't give a clear picture then go with your gut. Start somewhere, gain experience and give it a bit of time to see what you like and what you don't. Ideally you can grow organically from there by making small changes that build on the experience you already gained, so you don't have to start all over. But at the same time, don't be afraid of starting all over again either if you have good reasons (either you really do not like what you tried first, even after a long time, or some other amazing opportunity comes along).
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Maseerah’s Answer

Hello there! As a high school senior, you're asking the right questions. I was in a similar situation when I began my career in data science through an internship. I faced the same dilemma: choosing between a data science role and a data engineer role. I only gained clarity after speaking with my manager in 2021. He explained that while AI tools will handle a lot of data science tasks, there will be a strong demand for people who can build software and data pipelines. Even if you're drawn to data science, consider what will benefit you in the long run. This advice was specific to me, but everyone has different skills and paths. It's often easier to move from a software developer role to data science after gaining experience. However, starting as a data scientist might require a master's or Ph.D. to ensure a sustainable career.

Best,
Maseerah Muradabadi, UMKC alumni, Deloitte Senior Solution Specialist
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