I’m stuck. I graduated with a stats degree in 2023 and have been working in data engineering for about a year now. But my real passion is AI/ML, which I got to experience during an internship in undergrad. Lately, I’ve been feeling unsure about my career direction.
I’m torn between three options:
## The ‘Standard’ Path: Master’s in CS
Getting a Master’s in Computer Science seems like the obvious choice for breaking into AI/ML. But it’s expensive, and my company doesn’t offer much tuition help. I’m not convinced the payoff is worth it, especially when I could self-teach.
## The Self-Taught Entrepreneur
I like the idea of using my time and money to build skills on my own and eventually start something. I’ve seen people with technical backgrounds merge business and tech to great success. But is this path really viable?
## The Academic Route
I loved research in undergrad and could see myself going back into that space. But what does the reality look like long-term?
I’m also not sure I want to climb the corporate ladder forever. So, I’m trying to figure out what makes sense.
That’s why I’d love to hear from anyone who’s gone down one of these routes—grad school, breaking into AI/ML without a degree, starting a business, or academia. Any stories or advice would be super helpful.
What are your thoughts? Have you navigated a similar career crossroads?