Long story short, I'm a Dev. From a boring job, I started a very successful side project. A dream came true. Now 4 years later, I'm done with it.
Yes I did learn a lot. Yes, data science and a bit of ML was involved. Yes, I (should) feel very fortunate (and I do). But it was a lonely journey. Since I could afford it, I took a lot of lectures at the university again (a good one). Got re-educated on the latest "shit" regarding machine learning, robotics, 3D vision. Even did a small student/research project. BUT it's not enough. Can't really land a job that I want. I understand that. Couldn't even get an interesting internship. Yes, these entry positions are for graduates and obviously I just lack the experience for a senior position. My CV isn't just as clean... OK, enough complaining : )
Was thinking – how about buying my way somehow into it? Shouldn't this work? Maybe it depends on how much... Yes could start my own company in the area of my interest (robotics) BUT I do not feel comfortable doing such a step right now. So what do you think : )? Any hint? Can this work? How? Thanks!
I'll be honest. Go sign up for Oxfam or Peace Corps, teach ESL somewhere, volunteer. There's even Peace Corps Response, which are short term stints that are better suited for professionals. Go help people with your time and money if you've got it. You'll learn a lot and it's a great stepping stone into many exciting future career paths you may not have considered. You'll probably become a better entrepreneur too.
But if you're looking to work at one of the FAANGs or a hot startup, usually networking is the best path forward. I always recommend the 2 Hour Job Search. It has a great methodology to find jobs that still works, even in this economy. The sad truth is that the vast majority of job opportunities are not posted, so go work on your social capital.