Unfulfilled Dreams: The Quest for the Perfect Job

On the surface, working as a Porn Star might seem like a dream come true to some, but for me, it's a mere fantasy. I lack both the talent and the 'size' for it, making it an elusive idea. Similarly, there are jobs we aspire to but know we will never get. In this article, we delve into the journey of one software developer who sought the job of creating the most absurd default settings in software, alongside other ambitious career choices that seemed just out of reach.

Missed Opportunities and Trade-offs

While my college days were spent learning mechanical engineering and physics, I eventually opted for a more lucrative job at Hewlett-Packard, believing it would provide more practical value than a degree. My time in Silicon Valley might have turned out differently, but outside this rare exception, a university degree indeed matters in many fields.

Throughout college, the only course I regret dropping was one that could have bridged the gap between my interests and the software industry. Had I stayed, perhaps my professional journey would have taken a different, more satisfying path. It’s hard to say whether I wouldn’t have eventually found enjoyment in a different role, but my focus has always been on action rather than contemplation.

Miracle Path to Game Programming

A love for game programming was kindled when as a young boy, I saw Pong at a local grocery store. The amazing display of digital game blew my mind, and over the years, my fascination with video games and the programming behind them only grew. Throughout my life, I diligently sought out all the game programming resources I could find, eventually earning a BS in Software Engineering and securing my first game programming job before graduation.

Being made Lead Programmer on two games was a milestone in my career, even though neither of these games were my dream projects. However, the job was fun and challenging. Despite these successes, a gloomy pattern started to emerge. I was consistently laid off as studios went under, leading to frequent unemployment and relocations across the country.

A series of events led me to quit the game industry and pursue a stable career. But the allure of the games industry was too strong to resist, and eventually, a remote game programming job was offered. Unfortunately, this too did not last. After six months of unemployment due to the Dot-Com bubble burst, I settled for a more secure position and remained in it until recently.

The Lessons of a Life in Game Programming

Reflecting on my journey, I recognized that the instability and constant moving were not sustainable. The frequent layoffs and vacancies in the game industry took a toll on my family and my own well-being. Knowing this, I refocused on a steady career. Now, while I still love making games, I do it in my spare time, ensuring a more stable and fulfilling life for my family.

So, while the dream job of creating the dumbest default settings in software or becoming a game programmer are out of reach for me, I am grateful for the lessons learned from these pursuits. A degree in Software Engineering provided the necessary skills and a solid foundation to pursue my career in a more reliable and fulfilling manner.