The external validation isn't just outside the tech field though - the desire to work for a well-known corp isn't just to impress mom and dad.
The tech industry, to put it bluntly, has no idea how to hire people. Credentialing is everywhere, even amongst startups. Do you know how many startups eyes light up when they hear about well-regarded-big-tech-corp on my resume?
I've since graduated out of big software companies, but my time spent there continues to pay dividends in the startup world today. It is the way it is, for better or for worse - but one thing is clear to me: there are perfectly rational reasons to pursue this kind of credentialing besides "so the proles who don't get it respect me".
The tech industry, to put it bluntly, has no idea how to hire people. Credentialing is everywhere, even amongst startups. Do you know how many startups eyes light up when they hear about well-regarded-big-tech-corp on my resume?
I've since graduated out of big software companies, but my time spent there continues to pay dividends in the startup world today. It is the way it is, for better or for worse - but one thing is clear to me: there are perfectly rational reasons to pursue this kind of credentialing besides "so the proles who don't get it respect me".