The CS Degree Trap: Why One Graduate is Pivoting Away from Coding

McAllister, who grew up surrounded by software engineers, initially viewed the major as a safe bet. However, the introduction of ChatGPT during her freshman year fundamentally altered her education. As professors gradually permitted AI in the classroom, she found herself relying on these tools for assignments, eventually feeling that her grasp of core concepts had eroded. This dependency, combined with the grueling nature of technical interviews, left her feeling unprepared for the workforce.

After graduating in May, McAllister shifted her focus toward data analytics. She describes the transition as a response to both personal experience and broader market realities. Beyond the technical challenges, she notes that the rise of AI has significantly thinned the field for junior candidates. Facing intense competition for fewer roles, she feels the effort required to master LeetCode-style assessments no longer yields a commensurate reward. Coupled with persistent imposter syndrome and a desire for more inclusive work environments, she has opted to pivot toward database-related systems analysis rather than traditional software engineering.