I know there's know one-size-fits-all answer, but would it be helpful to learn some data structures and algorithms in my own time? Was knowledge of these a necessity in landing your two internships?
Definitely know your basic data structues, ie linked list, vector, etc, as well as your basic sorting algorithms. A lot of my interview questions had something to do with these topics. Also, in your spare time it wouldnt hurt to pick up a new language that you can put on your resume. That will open up more internship opportunities for you and make you a more desirable candidate. In my opinion, I would suggest learning python; if you are going to be learning C++ in school, python should be pretty easy for you to pick up. If you have any other questions feel free to ask.
This sucks to hear, but probably true. Meeting me in person, never would you ever consider that I've been in any trouble with the law at all. Knowing that the rest of my life could very well be an immense struggle is a pretty shitty feeling.. but I need to hear it.
I'm sorry about your situation, but I think the people telling you "it'll be fine" are creating a reality you're not going to see. That being said, you can still see success in your career (with tech, primarily) that exceed most non-felon people in the United States in terms of wages. However, when you get to this point, you'll realize that you would've succeeded even more had you not been a felon. Anyway, I digress.
Some notes from talking to hiring managers at my company:
1. I suspect HR just passes on felons directly during the application phase. What this means for you is that you need to bypass this. So if you pursue tech, networking is going to become super crucial for you.
2. Something like crime would prove to be a tie-breaker if things are hard to judge. Given the lack of objectivity during tech interviews, this will put you at a disadvantage. In order to get your foot in the door, I would try to a "big fish in a small pond." Meaning, apply at smaller companies, non-profits, etc. Places where tech isn't the primary focus and show value.
3. I assume you've seen this site [1]. I was reading an article a long time ago and saw it referenced. Hopefully it can be of use to you.
4. What I would strongly recommend is just becoming as good as you can, building your network as indicated in (1) and just contract and freelance. You know much better than I do. The discrimination against you for being a felon (even if it's non-violent) is offensive.
I see what you're saying. I'm hoping and praying for a deal where I don't get the convictions at all. That would quiet all my worries. It's a definite chance, but I'm planning for the worst. I will definitely take into account everything you said. Still, I have a slimmer of hope that over time, when the charges (or convictions) are 7-10+ years old, and depending on where I'm living at the time, I could see just as much success as anyone else, felon or not. Surely if a guy has very strong technical skills, great people skills, and valuable connections, the convictions could become a non-issue over time since he is valuable otherwise. But, we will see. Thanks for your advice :).
Make sure to demonstrate that you have ties to the community. Get letters from friends, teachers, relatives, coworkers, etc tonget in front of the judge and prosecutor.
You sound like someone who got caught up in something. Show that regret and accept responsibility. I haven't been through this, but I know people who have... good luck.
I ultimately plan on starting my own thing. Whether that be consulting, or SaaS, or whatever, I'm not sure. But I don't feel I'll ever be fulfilled until I'm making money for myself. I'm going to be graduating with quite a lot above the average student debt, though, so my first 5 ish years after school I plan on spending as an employee, gaining skills and dumping everything I can towards the loans. Thank you for your response!
This gives me hope. I realize you don't want to share personal information, but assuming you do have felonies (or even if you don't), how did you get into a position of making 200k base? Are you working for a small or larger company? I'm also assuming you're in SV.
Once I finish school (I live in the Midwest) I plan on moving to the northwest or SV. Or really wherever I have the best chances with.
