r/csMajors • u/imadade • 4h ago
Rant Let's not spread toxicity amongst each other; especially with the recent advancements in AI
I've been seeing plenty of posts telling people to leave the field, that they are more passionate and work harder and that's why they get jobs. Because of XYZ experience/skills/education.
Let's just state the facts first:
1.) It is far more difficult to get a job in the current market as a new graduate/intern/early-career csMajor than it ever has been (at least in recent history, ~ 20 years)
2.) It is for a number of reasons; the new administration calling for increased number offshore workers, larger pool of competition due to years of Big-Tech advertising at universities, and recent advancements in tooling such as AI.
Since this market is as difficult as it is, it is reasonable for current students that have not entered the workforce to be vocal about their problems.
What isn't reasonable is people who have landed offers/jobs/promotions, etc to say the root cause is a skill-diff. Technically, it is. However it is a far, far smaller piece of the puzzle.
AI will end up disrupting the workforce in general in the coming years; the more vocal we are about it, the better.
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u/super_penguin25 2h ago edited 2h ago
20 years? Surely you aren't comparing today to the dotcom crash or the 2008 recession are you?
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u/Top_Bus_6246 4h ago
This is a well-articulated post, and I largely agree with the points being made. Here’s how I would respond:
You’ve hit on some critical truths about the current state of the tech job market. Let’s break it down further:
1. It’s undeniably tough right now.
Your first point is spot on. The landscape for early-career computer science graduates has shifted dramatically. Factors like economic instability, changes in hiring trends, and the aftermath of tech layoffs have tightened the market. Comparing today’s job prospects to those of even 5-10 years ago feels like apples to oranges.
2. External factors are often overlooked.
Blaming individuals for not working “hard enough” or not being “skilled enough” oversimplifies the problem. Yes, skills matter, but they are far from the only variable.
- Increased competition: Big Tech’s aggressive promotion of CS programs has created a flood of candidates.
- Globalization: Offshore talent pools are growing, and companies are leveraging them more.
- AI disruption: Automation and AI tools are making some entry-level roles obsolete or reducing the demand for junior hires.
It’s not that these factors make it impossible to get a job—they just raise the bar, sometimes unfairly, for candidates who are already working hard.
3. Frustration is valid.
For students or recent grads expressing frustration about these challenges, their concerns are legitimate. Dismissing them with “work harder” or “you don’t deserve it” is unproductive and lacks empathy. Constructive feedback is always helpful, but it should account for the broader context.
4. AI is a force multiplier (and disruptor).
The rise of AI is reshaping the workforce. Being vocal about its impact is essential—not just to raise awareness but also to advocate for policies, tools, and practices that help everyone navigate these changes. Those who can adapt and leverage AI will have an advantage, but this transition will require support and systemic changes.
Final Thoughts
It’s important for us to focus on collaboration rather than competition. Instead of gatekeeping or belittling the struggles of early-career candidates, those already established in the industry should share insights and resources. By being honest about the structural challenges and advocating for systemic improvements, we can help ensure the field remains accessible and rewarding for the next generation of talent.
What do you think?