Re:But...why? (Score 1)

I am rlp's teenage daughter; the one he "talked out of" being a computer scientist. I have read both my Dad's comment and you're argument and wish to clarify and express my own opinions on the matter. For starters, when I first considered becoming a software developer, at about the age of 6, I wanted to do it because of my interest in the field and my adoration and respect for my parents, never for the money. I continued to hold a strong interest in this career as I grew up, until about the time I turned 11. At this point, my father was laid off from his job and went through about a year long period of unemployment. My father frequently told me about how bad the job market had become and begged me to reconsider my career choices. Indeed, it was through my own consideration that brought me to the conclusion that computer science was not the right field for me to go into, though I do admit my father's struggles did weigh heavily on my mind and probably was one of the deciding factors. I mostly decided to reply to your comment because I felt that you did not understand the choice my family and I made when they first started to pressure me not to go into the computer field and I first decided this was a good idea. I no longer wish to major in computers in college but that does not mean I plan to do nothing at all with computers for the rest of my life. I plan to take many computer science courses in both high school and college because I beleive computer skills are important in any job. I actually would like to get a Ph.D. in the science rather than in computers, but no self-respecting scientist is completely ignorant of basic computer programming. In fact, I plan to take AP Computer Science this coming year, along with some higher level math, science, and engineering, all useful skills in a science environment. You see, my Dad was never trying to completely turn my off of the computer field altogether, only to steer me towards using my love of computers and high computer skills towards a more employable, and possibly more enjoyable, occupation.