17 answers
Amaia
Student
Frankfort, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
1161 views
What is it like to work in the Tech field? Is working in the Tech field boring? What's the starting salary? Could you work from home?
My goal is to major in AI engineering and computer science with a minor of cyber security. But I would also like a remote job if that's possible.
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16 answers
Aml Omar
Marketing & Business Development Consultant
26
Answers
Egypt
Updated
Aml’s Answer
Tech isn’t inherently boring — it depends heavily on the role you choose. If you enjoy solving problems, building things, learning continuously, and working with technology, it can be very engaging. But some roles are repetitive, so I’d focus on finding the type of work you actually enjoy.
Your plan of Computer Science + AI Engineering + a Cybersecurity minor gives you several options. You could eventually explore roles such as AI/ML Engineer, Software Engineer, Data/AI roles, Security Engineer, or AI Security.
Remote work is definitely possible in tech, but I wouldn’t make “remote” the main career goal. Many entry-level positions are hybrid or on-site, and remote opportunities become easier to access once you have strong skills and some experience.
For salary, there isn't one useful “Tech starting salary” because it varies enormously by country, role, company, and experience. Instead of choosing a major based on a salary number, research the salaries for the specific roles you're targeting in the country where you want to work.
If you're still in school, I’d focus on building skills alongside your degree: Python, data structures & algorithms, Git/GitHub, SQL, Linux, cloud fundamentals, machine learning, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Then build 3–4 serious projects and try to get internships.
A strong long-term strategy would be:
CS fundamentals → AI specialization → cybersecurity knowledge → internships → strong portfolio → first job → remote/hybrid opportunities.
That combination can give you much more flexibility than simply aiming for “a job in tech."
Your plan of Computer Science + AI Engineering + a Cybersecurity minor gives you several options. You could eventually explore roles such as AI/ML Engineer, Software Engineer, Data/AI roles, Security Engineer, or AI Security.
Remote work is definitely possible in tech, but I wouldn’t make “remote” the main career goal. Many entry-level positions are hybrid or on-site, and remote opportunities become easier to access once you have strong skills and some experience.
For salary, there isn't one useful “Tech starting salary” because it varies enormously by country, role, company, and experience. Instead of choosing a major based on a salary number, research the salaries for the specific roles you're targeting in the country where you want to work.
If you're still in school, I’d focus on building skills alongside your degree: Python, data structures & algorithms, Git/GitHub, SQL, Linux, cloud fundamentals, machine learning, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Then build 3–4 serious projects and try to get internships.
A strong long-term strategy would be:
CS fundamentals → AI specialization → cybersecurity knowledge → internships → strong portfolio → first job → remote/hybrid opportunities.
That combination can give you much more flexibility than simply aiming for “a job in tech."
jamie jefferies
General Business Mgt
2
Answers
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
jamie’s Answer
Working in the tech field is not boring - fast pace, ever changing and has many avenues to pursue (technical engineering, sales, finance, legal, commercial, HR, marketing, services).
Your choices of degree are strong and highly relevant - especially the security piece and how it relates to sovereignty concerns etc. The skills you will develop in your studies can be applied to current and future needs, focus on your ability to learn, grasp fundamentals, adapt to change and develop strong interpersonal skills....learning and developing the real world is a TEAM sport.
High tech can be an opportunity for remote work - but would encourage the opportunity to meet / collaborate with colleagues face to face at times - good for mentoring, role modeling, networking and interpersonal skills. Job pool is broader if you are willing to travel/relocate or lean towards local opportunities.
Starting salaries for new grads circa 50k USD (location dependant) - encourage you to seek internships prior.
Your choices of degree are strong and highly relevant - especially the security piece and how it relates to sovereignty concerns etc. The skills you will develop in your studies can be applied to current and future needs, focus on your ability to learn, grasp fundamentals, adapt to change and develop strong interpersonal skills....learning and developing the real world is a TEAM sport.
High tech can be an opportunity for remote work - but would encourage the opportunity to meet / collaborate with colleagues face to face at times - good for mentoring, role modeling, networking and interpersonal skills. Job pool is broader if you are willing to travel/relocate or lean towards local opportunities.
Starting salaries for new grads circa 50k USD (location dependant) - encourage you to seek internships prior.
Brittany Cohen
IT Product Management
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
Working in the technology field can be really exciting because technology is always changing. There are constantly new tools, ideas, and problems to solve, so you have to be willing to learn, adapt, and be flexible when things change. That is one of the things I find most interesting about working in tech—there are so many different things you can do, and you are always learning something new.
I would not say working in tech is boring, but it can definitely be challenging. You often work with very smart and talented people who will ask questions, challenge your ideas, and push you to think differently. You have to learn to have confidence in your ideas while also being okay with being wrong sometimes. Being open to feedback, learning from other people, and continuing to grow are really important.
Tech can also be challenging because some parts of the industry are still dominated by certain groups of people. Depending on who you are and where you work, you may sometimes find yourself being one of only a few people with your background or perspective in the room. That can be difficult, but it also makes bringing different perspectives into technology very important.
Starting salaries in tech vary a lot depending on the type of job, the company, your exp
I would not say working in tech is boring, but it can definitely be challenging. You often work with very smart and talented people who will ask questions, challenge your ideas, and push you to think differently. You have to learn to have confidence in your ideas while also being okay with being wrong sometimes. Being open to feedback, learning from other people, and continuing to grow are really important.
Tech can also be challenging because some parts of the industry are still dominated by certain groups of people. Depending on who you are and where you work, you may sometimes find yourself being one of only a few people with your background or perspective in the room. That can be difficult, but it also makes bringing different perspectives into technology very important.
Starting salaries in tech vary a lot depending on the type of job, the company, your exp
Jezlea Ortega
Tech Architecture
86
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jezlea’s Answer
Working in tech is one of the most dynamic and fast-moving career experiences you can have right now. The field changes constantly, which means there is always something new to learn, a new problem to solve, or a new tool to master. For people who are naturally curious and enjoy mental challenges, it rarely feels boring because the work itself keeps evolving. That said, like any career, there are days that feel repetitive or frustrating. Debugging a stubborn issue for hours or sitting through long meetings is part of the reality too. But on the whole, tech offers a level of variety and intellectual stimulation that is hard to find in most other fields.
In terms of starting salary, tech is one of the highest paying fields for new graduates across the board. Entry level software and AI engineering roles typically start anywhere from $80,000 to $120,000 depending on the company, location, and your specific skill set coming out of school. Cybersecurity roles follow a similar range. As you gain experience those numbers climb significantly, and top tier companies in major tech hubs can offer total compensation packages well into six figures even at the junior level.
Your plan of combining AI engineering, computer science, and a cybersecurity minor is an incredibly strong combination right now. AI and cybersecurity together are two of the fastest growing and highest demand areas in the entire industry, and having a foundation in both makes you a rare and valuable candidate. As AI systems become more embedded in critical infrastructure, the need for people who understand both how to build those systems and how to secure them is only going to intensify. You are setting yourself up really well just make sure to complement your degree with internships, personal projects, and relevant certifications along the way because hands on experience is what truly separates candidates in a competitive market.
In terms of starting salary, tech is one of the highest paying fields for new graduates across the board. Entry level software and AI engineering roles typically start anywhere from $80,000 to $120,000 depending on the company, location, and your specific skill set coming out of school. Cybersecurity roles follow a similar range. As you gain experience those numbers climb significantly, and top tier companies in major tech hubs can offer total compensation packages well into six figures even at the junior level.
Your plan of combining AI engineering, computer science, and a cybersecurity minor is an incredibly strong combination right now. AI and cybersecurity together are two of the fastest growing and highest demand areas in the entire industry, and having a foundation in both makes you a rare and valuable candidate. As AI systems become more embedded in critical infrastructure, the need for people who understand both how to build those systems and how to secure them is only going to intensify. You are setting yourself up really well just make sure to complement your degree with internships, personal projects, and relevant certifications along the way because hands on experience is what truly separates candidates in a competitive market.
Liz Gardner Howe
IT QA
8
Answers
New Hartford, Connecticut
Updated
Liz’s Answer
I've worked in the technology field for over 20 years, and one thing I can tell you is that tech is rarely boring. Every project brings a new challenge to solve, whether it's improving a process, building new features, testing software, working with AI, or helping customers have a better experience.
Some days I analyze requirements, some days I answer questions and help teammates where I'm needed, other days I collaborate with business partners, developers, and leaders. Technology is constantly changing, so there is always something new to learn.
Fields such as AI engineering, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science are typically among the higher-paying technology careers. Entry-level salaries can be very good compared to many other fields, and compensation often increases significantly as you gain experience and specialized skills.
There are many technology jobs that can be done from home. Remote and hybrid opportunities are common in software development, cybersecurity, AI, quality assurance, systems analysis, cloud engineering, and other technology roles. However, some companies require employees to work in an office part-time, so flexibility depends on the employer and role. Honestly, when 1st starting out, it's to your benefit that you show up in the office so they can put a face to the name. This is a great way to start networking for future opportunities.
Since you're interested in AI Engineering, Computer Science, and Cybersecurity, I think you're choosing an exciting combination. My advice would be: Focus on building strong fundamentals in programming, problem-solving, and algorithms. Learn AI and machine learning concepts but understand how software systems are built. Develop cybersecurity awareness, since security is becoming important in every area of technology.
Work on personal projects and internships to gain real-world experience. This can help you pick the path you find most exciting.
Improve communication and teamwork skills. Many students underestimate how important these are, but they are often what help people advance into leadership roles later in their careers.
Most importantly, choose an area of technology that genuinely interests you. The people who are most successful in tech are usually the ones who enjoy learning and adapting because technology never stands still.
Good luck with your goals. AI, computer science, and cybersecurity are all growing fields with many opportunities ahead!
Some days I analyze requirements, some days I answer questions and help teammates where I'm needed, other days I collaborate with business partners, developers, and leaders. Technology is constantly changing, so there is always something new to learn.
Fields such as AI engineering, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science are typically among the higher-paying technology careers. Entry-level salaries can be very good compared to many other fields, and compensation often increases significantly as you gain experience and specialized skills.
There are many technology jobs that can be done from home. Remote and hybrid opportunities are common in software development, cybersecurity, AI, quality assurance, systems analysis, cloud engineering, and other technology roles. However, some companies require employees to work in an office part-time, so flexibility depends on the employer and role. Honestly, when 1st starting out, it's to your benefit that you show up in the office so they can put a face to the name. This is a great way to start networking for future opportunities.
Since you're interested in AI Engineering, Computer Science, and Cybersecurity, I think you're choosing an exciting combination. My advice would be: Focus on building strong fundamentals in programming, problem-solving, and algorithms. Learn AI and machine learning concepts but understand how software systems are built. Develop cybersecurity awareness, since security is becoming important in every area of technology.
Work on personal projects and internships to gain real-world experience. This can help you pick the path you find most exciting.
Improve communication and teamwork skills. Many students underestimate how important these are, but they are often what help people advance into leadership roles later in their careers.
Most importantly, choose an area of technology that genuinely interests you. The people who are most successful in tech are usually the ones who enjoy learning and adapting because technology never stands still.
Good luck with your goals. AI, computer science, and cybersecurity are all growing fields with many opportunities ahead!
Matthew Setter
I'm a software developer and trainer
3
Answers
Bundaberg Central, Queensland, Australia
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Working in tech, like most fields (I suspect) is what you make of it. The old saying "you get out what you put in" is, often, pretty apt.
I've been working in tech since around 1999, mainly in web application development and systems administration. It's been, often times, quite fulfilling. But, it's had its down times as well. While being in tech is often seen as great from the outside, it's easy to run into people who treat you as a glorified factory worker. If you can, avoid these people like the proverbial plague. Working in tech is a craft and a meaningful endeavour, just like so many others are, and should be valued as such.
Your starting salary is heavily influenced by where you live, what you studied (your degrees and certifications), who you know, and how much you can demonstrate that you know and can do. I've found people are, often, most responsive willing to give you a start based on what you can demonstrate. Sure, people might be more willing to at least listen to you if you have a degree or industry certification, but demonstrating your knowledge is key!
So, build things and keep an active portfolio, one that lists key technologies along with how you built what you built. Again, not wanting to be pedantic, but being able to show, to demonstrate, is essential. Just saying you know something is not that credible.
Create a portfolio website or have some way of listing your achievements
Use tools such as GitHub to demonstrate your ability to write good quality code
Create a podcast to discuss what you're learning, the highs, the lows, and everything else on your journey
Help others as and where you can
I've been working in tech since around 1999, mainly in web application development and systems administration. It's been, often times, quite fulfilling. But, it's had its down times as well. While being in tech is often seen as great from the outside, it's easy to run into people who treat you as a glorified factory worker. If you can, avoid these people like the proverbial plague. Working in tech is a craft and a meaningful endeavour, just like so many others are, and should be valued as such.
Your starting salary is heavily influenced by where you live, what you studied (your degrees and certifications), who you know, and how much you can demonstrate that you know and can do. I've found people are, often, most responsive willing to give you a start based on what you can demonstrate. Sure, people might be more willing to at least listen to you if you have a degree or industry certification, but demonstrating your knowledge is key!
So, build things and keep an active portfolio, one that lists key technologies along with how you built what you built. Again, not wanting to be pedantic, but being able to show, to demonstrate, is essential. Just saying you know something is not that credible.
Matthew recommends the following next steps:
Madan Khadka
Data Center Technician
6
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Madan’s Answer
If you're interested in technology, I'd definitely recommend pursuing AI Engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity. The tech industry can be challenging, but it's rarely boring because you're constantly learning new skills, solving problems, and working with technologies that are always evolving. One of the biggest advantages of a tech career is flexibility. Many roles, especially in AI, software development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science, offer remote or hybrid work options. Starting salaries are generally strong compared to many other fields, and there is significant potential for career growth. If you enjoy technology and want a career that combines good pay, learning opportunities, and the possibility of working from home, tech is a great field to consider.
Teklemuz Tesfay
Software Engineer and Career Mentor
712
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz’s Answer
Working in tech is an exciting journey where you get to solve problems, create software, analyze data, and build digital tools. Each role offers something unique: AI engineers create smart applications and machine-learning systems, while cybersecurity experts keep networks safe and handle threats. Starting salaries vary by location, company, and role, but they often grow as you gain experience and specialize.
Your decision to study Computer Science and AI engineering with a minor in cybersecurity is fantastic. CS50 is a great resource for Computer Science, while Kaggle and fast.ai are excellent for AI. Use GitHub to showcase your work, and learn about cybersecurity with PortSwigger Web Security Academy or TryHackMe. Many tech jobs can be done remotely, and you can also work as a freelancer on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Projects and internships will give you the experience you need for remote or freelance work.
Your decision to study Computer Science and AI engineering with a minor in cybersecurity is fantastic. CS50 is a great resource for Computer Science, while Kaggle and fast.ai are excellent for AI. Use GitHub to showcase your work, and learn about cybersecurity with PortSwigger Web Security Academy or TryHackMe. Many tech jobs can be done remotely, and you can also work as a freelancer on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Projects and internships will give you the experience you need for remote or freelance work.
Elizabeth Osinski
Business Strategy
1
Answer
Bethesda, Maryland
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
The tech field offers a variety of careers focused on solving problems with technology, from software development and AI to cybersecurity. While some tasks can be repetitive, many people find the work engaging because they are constantly learning, building new solutions, and tackling complex challenges. Tech careers often provide strong starting salaries, especially in areas like AI engineering and cybersecurity, and many companies offer remote or hybrid work opportunities. Majoring in AI Engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity is an excellent combination that can open doors to careers such as AI Engineer, Software Engineer, Security Engineer, or Cybersecurity Analyst, many of which can be done remotely.
Cynthia Mitchell
Application Security
6
Answers
Garner, North Carolina
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
Working in the tech field is great. There is never a dull moment. Also there are many different to fields to choose from. Technology is constantly changing so you would never be board.
So I would suggest maybe taking a tech oriented career survey. It will help you in the skills strength and weakness and then get a list of jobs in the field you would do well in.
One piece of advice make sure you have great soft skills. Good written and oral communication is a plus.
So I would suggest maybe taking a tech oriented career survey. It will help you in the skills strength and weakness and then get a list of jobs in the field you would do well in.
One piece of advice make sure you have great soft skills. Good written and oral communication is a plus.
Caitlyn Quan
1
Answer
Updated
Caitlyn’s Answer
Working in the tech field really depends on the company you join. Ever since COVID, working from home has definitely become a bigger norm across the industry. However, it varies a lot now—some companies have asked employees to come fully back into the office, others are still 100% virtual, and a lot have adopted a hybrid model.
I’m a software engineer and have been doing this for almost four years now. I personally love my job and don’t find it boring at all, but whether it's boring or exciting is entirely up to you, your interests, and the projects you work on.
Since your goal is to major in AI engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity, you are setting yourself up really well. AI and security are two of the highest-demand areas in tech right now, which will give you a lot more leverage when searching for remote or flexible roles. While entry-level fully remote jobs can be competitive, your specialized focus will definitely help you stand out.
My biggest piece of advice is: do not join the tech field just for the trend or the hype. You will feel the burnout quickly, and you’ll end up hating it. But if computer science, engineering, and AI are things you genuinely enjoy and are interested in, then you are on the exact right path.
I’m a software engineer and have been doing this for almost four years now. I personally love my job and don’t find it boring at all, but whether it's boring or exciting is entirely up to you, your interests, and the projects you work on.
Since your goal is to major in AI engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity, you are setting yourself up really well. AI and security are two of the highest-demand areas in tech right now, which will give you a lot more leverage when searching for remote or flexible roles. While entry-level fully remote jobs can be competitive, your specialized focus will definitely help you stand out.
My biggest piece of advice is: do not join the tech field just for the trend or the hype. You will feel the burnout quickly, and you’ll end up hating it. But if computer science, engineering, and AI are things you genuinely enjoy and are interested in, then you are on the exact right path.
Jean Noel Sanchez
Developer/Data Analyst
94
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jean Noel’s Answer
Hi - Combining an AI Engineering and Computer Science major with a Cybersecurity minor is one of the strongest, most future-proof academic tracks available today.
1. What Is It Like to Work in Tech?
Working in tech feels less like traditional office work and more like continuous puzzle-solving:
• Daily Pace: Your day is split between collaboration and solo execution. Mornings often start with a short "standup" meeting to sync on tasks, followed by deep focus blocks spent building systems, training models, or auditing code.
• Continuous Learning: Tech evolves rapidly. A major part of the job is simply reading documentation, testing new frameworks, and figuring out why something isn't working as intended.
• Culture: Tech tends to be less formal than finance or law. Results matter far more than strict office hours or formal attire.
2. Is Working in Tech Boring?
Rarely—if you enjoy solving complex problems.
• Why it's exciting: You get to build systems from scratch, automate repetitive tasks, and directly influence products used by thousands or millions of people. Working at the intersection of AI and Cybersecurity means you'll be dealing with cutting-edge fields like securing machine learning pipelines and defending against automated cyber threats.
• Where it can get tedious: Like any career, there are dull moments—such as tracking down minor bugs, writing documentation, or navigating long administrative approval processes at large corporations.
3. What Is the Starting Salary?
Compensation in tech is among the highest for entry-level roles, though it varies by region, specialization, and company size:
Role Level Salary Range
Standard Entry-Level (Software / CS) $70,000 – $95,000 base salary
Specialized Entry-Level (AI / Cybersecurity) $80,000 – $110,000+ base salary
High-Tier / Tech Hubs (e.g., Big Tech startups) $110,000 – $140,000+ total compensation
Your target combo—AI + CS + Cybersecurity—places you at the higher end of these ranges because demand for AI security specialists vastly outpaces supply.
4. Can You Work from Home (Remote Work)?
Yes, absolutely. Tech remains one of the most remote-friendly industries in the world:
• Remote Fit: Software engineering, AI model development, and cloud-based cybersecurity are inherently digital—your code functions the exact same way whether you sit in an office or at a desk at home.
• Job Formats: You'll find full WFH (100% remote), hybrid (2–3 days at home, 1–2 in an office), and global remote roles.
• The Caveat for Beginners: Some companies prefer entry-level engineers to work hybrid for their first year to make mentorship easier. Once you build 1–2 years of experience, switching to a 100% remote role becomes much easier.
5. Strategic Tips for Your Specific Major Combo
1. Focus on "AI Security" (Securing AI Systems): AI models bring new vulnerabilities (e.g., prompt injection, data poisoning). Understanding how to protect AI infrastructure makes you exceptionally valuable to employers.
2. Prioritize Practical Projects Over Grades: A high GPA is helpful, but a GitHub portfolio showcasing custom AI applications or cybersecurity tools will secure job offers far faster.
3. Target Summer Internships Early: Apply for software or security internships starting in your sophomore year. Having 1 or 2 internships before graduating is the single best way to land a high-paying remote job right out of college.
1. What Is It Like to Work in Tech?
Working in tech feels less like traditional office work and more like continuous puzzle-solving:
• Daily Pace: Your day is split between collaboration and solo execution. Mornings often start with a short "standup" meeting to sync on tasks, followed by deep focus blocks spent building systems, training models, or auditing code.
• Continuous Learning: Tech evolves rapidly. A major part of the job is simply reading documentation, testing new frameworks, and figuring out why something isn't working as intended.
• Culture: Tech tends to be less formal than finance or law. Results matter far more than strict office hours or formal attire.
2. Is Working in Tech Boring?
Rarely—if you enjoy solving complex problems.
• Why it's exciting: You get to build systems from scratch, automate repetitive tasks, and directly influence products used by thousands or millions of people. Working at the intersection of AI and Cybersecurity means you'll be dealing with cutting-edge fields like securing machine learning pipelines and defending against automated cyber threats.
• Where it can get tedious: Like any career, there are dull moments—such as tracking down minor bugs, writing documentation, or navigating long administrative approval processes at large corporations.
3. What Is the Starting Salary?
Compensation in tech is among the highest for entry-level roles, though it varies by region, specialization, and company size:
Role Level Salary Range
Standard Entry-Level (Software / CS) $70,000 – $95,000 base salary
Specialized Entry-Level (AI / Cybersecurity) $80,000 – $110,000+ base salary
High-Tier / Tech Hubs (e.g., Big Tech startups) $110,000 – $140,000+ total compensation
Your target combo—AI + CS + Cybersecurity—places you at the higher end of these ranges because demand for AI security specialists vastly outpaces supply.
4. Can You Work from Home (Remote Work)?
Yes, absolutely. Tech remains one of the most remote-friendly industries in the world:
• Remote Fit: Software engineering, AI model development, and cloud-based cybersecurity are inherently digital—your code functions the exact same way whether you sit in an office or at a desk at home.
• Job Formats: You'll find full WFH (100% remote), hybrid (2–3 days at home, 1–2 in an office), and global remote roles.
• The Caveat for Beginners: Some companies prefer entry-level engineers to work hybrid for their first year to make mentorship easier. Once you build 1–2 years of experience, switching to a 100% remote role becomes much easier.
5. Strategic Tips for Your Specific Major Combo
1. Focus on "AI Security" (Securing AI Systems): AI models bring new vulnerabilities (e.g., prompt injection, data poisoning). Understanding how to protect AI infrastructure makes you exceptionally valuable to employers.
2. Prioritize Practical Projects Over Grades: A high GPA is helpful, but a GitHub portfolio showcasing custom AI applications or cybersecurity tools will secure job offers far faster.
3. Target Summer Internships Early: Apply for software or security internships starting in your sophomore year. Having 1 or 2 internships before graduating is the single best way to land a high-paying remote job right out of college.
Denzil Dsouza
2
Answers
Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Denzil’s Answer
1. What Is It Like to Work in the Tech Field?
Working in tech feels a lot like building with digital LEGOs and solving puzzles every day.
Collaborative & Team-Focused: You rarely work in total isolation. You collaborate with designers (who decide how apps look), product managers (who decide what features to build), and other engineers to bring ideas to life.
Casual & Flexible Culture: Tech companies are famous for relaxed dress codes, modern office spaces (with snacks, game rooms, and lounge areas), and flexible working hours based on results rather than clock-watching.
Continuous Learning: Technology moves fast, so your job involves constantly learning new tools, frameworks, and techniques. If you enjoy learning how things work under the hood, it’s a very satisfying career.
2. Is Working in the Tech Field Boring?
Honestly? Most people find it exciting, but it has its moments of patience-testing work.
Why it’s exciting:
You build things people actually use: Whether you're working on Spotify’s recommendation engine, a video game physics engine, or a banking security tool, seeing real people interact with something you helped create is incredibly rewarding.
Tech exists in every industry: You don’t just have to work at a software company. You can work in gaming, sports analytics, music, fashion, space exploration (NASA/SpaceX), healthcare, or film/CGI.
The "boring" or tedious parts:
Debugging: Spending three hours hunting down a single missing semicolon or logic error can be frustrating—though the feeling when it finally works is unmatched!
Meetings & Documentation: Writing down how your code works and explaining updates in team meetings is part of the job.
3. What’s the Starting Salary?
Tech is widely known for offering some of the highest starting salaries straight out of college. Starting pay varies depending on the country, company tier (startups vs. tech giants), and role:
In the United States:
Average Entry-Level: $75,000 – $110,000 / year
Top Tech Companies (Google, Microsoft, Meta, etc.): Can reach $130,000 – $170,000+ / year (combining base salary, bonuses, and company stock).
4. Could You Work from Home?
Yes, absolutely! Tech is one of the most remote-friendly industries in the world.
Remote-First & Distributed Teams: Many tech companies allow engineers to work 100% from home from anywhere in their country (or even across the globe).
Hybrid Options: Many companies offer a hybrid model—working 2–3 days in an office to brainstorm and hang out with coworkers, and 2–3 days at home for deep, quiet focus.
What you need to make it work: High-speed internet, a comfortable desk setup, and strong communication skills (so your team knows what you’re working on via chat and video calls).
Working in tech feels a lot like building with digital LEGOs and solving puzzles every day.
Collaborative & Team-Focused: You rarely work in total isolation. You collaborate with designers (who decide how apps look), product managers (who decide what features to build), and other engineers to bring ideas to life.
Casual & Flexible Culture: Tech companies are famous for relaxed dress codes, modern office spaces (with snacks, game rooms, and lounge areas), and flexible working hours based on results rather than clock-watching.
Continuous Learning: Technology moves fast, so your job involves constantly learning new tools, frameworks, and techniques. If you enjoy learning how things work under the hood, it’s a very satisfying career.
2. Is Working in the Tech Field Boring?
Honestly? Most people find it exciting, but it has its moments of patience-testing work.
Why it’s exciting:
You build things people actually use: Whether you're working on Spotify’s recommendation engine, a video game physics engine, or a banking security tool, seeing real people interact with something you helped create is incredibly rewarding.
Tech exists in every industry: You don’t just have to work at a software company. You can work in gaming, sports analytics, music, fashion, space exploration (NASA/SpaceX), healthcare, or film/CGI.
The "boring" or tedious parts:
Debugging: Spending three hours hunting down a single missing semicolon or logic error can be frustrating—though the feeling when it finally works is unmatched!
Meetings & Documentation: Writing down how your code works and explaining updates in team meetings is part of the job.
3. What’s the Starting Salary?
Tech is widely known for offering some of the highest starting salaries straight out of college. Starting pay varies depending on the country, company tier (startups vs. tech giants), and role:
In the United States:
Average Entry-Level: $75,000 – $110,000 / year
Top Tech Companies (Google, Microsoft, Meta, etc.): Can reach $130,000 – $170,000+ / year (combining base salary, bonuses, and company stock).
4. Could You Work from Home?
Yes, absolutely! Tech is one of the most remote-friendly industries in the world.
Remote-First & Distributed Teams: Many tech companies allow engineers to work 100% from home from anywhere in their country (or even across the globe).
Hybrid Options: Many companies offer a hybrid model—working 2–3 days in an office to brainstorm and hang out with coworkers, and 2–3 days at home for deep, quiet focus.
What you need to make it work: High-speed internet, a comfortable desk setup, and strong communication skills (so your team knows what you’re working on via chat and video calls).
Adriana Morales
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adriana’s Answer
Hi!
Working in tech is honestly pretty dynamic. It does depend on the company and the team you're on usually but there is always something to learn, whether it's a new tool, framework, or problem to solve. It can feel repetitive at times (meetings or debugging), but overall it rarely is boring as the field moves fast and you're constantly adapting.
Remote work is super common in tech! A lot of companies are fully remote or hybrid so if that's your goal, it definitely is realistic. Just note a lot of companies have been doing return to office lately but there are still several companies with flexibility.
For salary, it varies a lot by role and location but software engineering and AI roles tend to start strong. Entry levels in the US range from $80k - 120k (sometimes more!).
Your combination sounds solid! If you're aiming for AI specifically, make sure to get hands-on real projects (personal projects, internships, etc.) since that matters as much as the degree when applying.
Best of luck!!
Working in tech is honestly pretty dynamic. It does depend on the company and the team you're on usually but there is always something to learn, whether it's a new tool, framework, or problem to solve. It can feel repetitive at times (meetings or debugging), but overall it rarely is boring as the field moves fast and you're constantly adapting.
Remote work is super common in tech! A lot of companies are fully remote or hybrid so if that's your goal, it definitely is realistic. Just note a lot of companies have been doing return to office lately but there are still several companies with flexibility.
For salary, it varies a lot by role and location but software engineering and AI roles tend to start strong. Entry levels in the US range from $80k - 120k (sometimes more!).
Your combination sounds solid! If you're aiming for AI specifically, make sure to get hands-on real projects (personal projects, internships, etc.) since that matters as much as the degree when applying.
Best of luck!!
Isabella Brody-Calixto
Business Analyst
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Isabella’s Answer
It really depends, for all of your questions!
First, I think it's smart to minor in AI engineering, because it's becoming such a huge part of the tech field as a whole.
Secondly, I am a computer science major but did not go into software engineering. So even if you go through with this plan, you don't have to commit to a specific career path.
Salaries are generally good (usually 80k+ right out of college) but the field is very competitive. Make sure you differentiate yourself with extra learning or experience.
Is it boring? Sometimes! I think all jobs can be boring if you're not interested in them. Most tech jobs do involve sitting on a computer for several hours a day, so if physical movement is a priority maybe another field would be best.
Finally: can you work from home? You definitely can, but those roles are usually either very competitive or lower paid. A lot of big tech firms are going back to office, so it is rarer now than it was a few years ago. The good news is a LOT of roles are hybrid (1-3 days in office.)
First, I think it's smart to minor in AI engineering, because it's becoming such a huge part of the tech field as a whole.
Secondly, I am a computer science major but did not go into software engineering. So even if you go through with this plan, you don't have to commit to a specific career path.
Salaries are generally good (usually 80k+ right out of college) but the field is very competitive. Make sure you differentiate yourself with extra learning or experience.
Is it boring? Sometimes! I think all jobs can be boring if you're not interested in them. Most tech jobs do involve sitting on a computer for several hours a day, so if physical movement is a priority maybe another field would be best.
Finally: can you work from home? You definitely can, but those roles are usually either very competitive or lower paid. A lot of big tech firms are going back to office, so it is rarer now than it was a few years ago. The good news is a LOT of roles are hybrid (1-3 days in office.)
Flora Rowe
Tech Company Sales Strategy & Operations
2
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Flora’s Answer
Working at a tech company can be enjoyable, and there are many jobs besides engineering. Consider what subjects you like most in school and what tasks excite you. Then, explore the different job options available. Many people post "day in the life" videos on social media and YouTube to show what various roles are like. Salaries differ based on your location and country.