Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

I have a degree in Computer Science and Philosophy[1] (graduated in 2010) and I think the second part of that degree has helped me more in interviews and in life than the first part by a wide margin.

It put me in a very interesting position when applying and interviewing because (apparently) nobody ever sees that degree or combination and they always ask about it. I was able to wax eloquent about how I love writing, debating and clear communication. How I have a firmer grasp of logic because of my (more technical) philosophy courses and how it has allowed me to relate better and communicate more effectively.

Good communication and writing writing skills, as well as a willingness to write are I think (and many have seemed to agree) in short supply in the computing fields and I think that almost any humanities degree would add an enormous amount of value to a person, provided they can do the computing parts of their job as well!

[1] This means that I completed all of the requirements to get either degree, but didn't have the sheer credit hours to literally get two pieces of paper. My diploma could just as easily read "Philosophy and Computer Science" instead.




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: