Due to circumstances I don't want to go into, I'm going to be unable to complete my education for a computer science degree or any other subject for that matter. I'm not heartbroken about it, I just wanted to go that route for the money. But now I need to find a way to break into the real world.
I was only two years in and my schedules were pretty balanced between courses for my major and gen eds, so I've only got a basic understanding of computer science-y stuff like novice programming and knowledge of hardware. Nothing that would really wow someone on a resume. I have 6 months experience at a vendor job (greeting card company, I go to locations and stock greeting cards) and over a year and a half experience at a local grocery store. How do I find well-paying work with no degree and no professional experience?
I always suggest getting a job on a boat or ship. No experience required, great pay, and you usually work equal time on and off. Pay for Americans usually starts around $250/day on a tugboat, a little less for oil supply boats or ships, more in LA or NY or other busy ports.
I started off painting in the engine room of an oil tanker. 20 years later I'm a captain. I happen to have started a little later, after a first career, but many of my contemporaries have no college experience whatsoever. My chief mate, for example, barely finished high school, but how high you rise is based on your drive and ability to learn on the job.
Worth thinking about.
Your other options are of course to apply with the post office or join the military. Both will provide you with the opportunity to learn a trade.
