> -----Original Message----- > From: TommCatt [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] > > My favorite ad was from Lawrence Livermore Labs. As Dave > Barry says, I am not making this up. It had a list of normal > programming skills -- HTML, Java, some database experience > and web site design -- and then came the > clincher: PHD in Particle Physics.
It just so happens (I'm not making this up), that is actually my background. Where do I apply!? ;-) Mind you, after finishing my PhD I still had to spend several months doing crappy data input jobs as filler and applying for many jobs before getting a low-paying, long-hours programming position. But it was a 'foot in the door', and it has paid off in the long run. Convincing employers that you really are a quality software developer and that your heart is in it when your degree is in a different subject can be a major hurdle, so you need to work extra hard in this scenario. Also, I started on Delphi & C, which I learnt solely to improve my chances of getting a job. A couple of years later I had the opportunity to move to Java. So, as others have said, you need to maximise your employability through your own hard graft, even if that means starting off doing something you'd rather not, then once you've got a job and gained a bit of experience, you can start working to move in the directions you prefer. Al. ____________________________________________________ To change your JDJList options, please visit: http://www.sys-con.com/java/list.cfm Be respectful! Clean up your posts before replying ____________________________________________________
