Ask HN: Getting back to software development at mid 30s
I am a longtime HN member but am using a new account to ask what I find an awkward question....
How can I get a decent software job given I have been out of the industry for +5years?
I have a Computer Science degree from a decent UK university, and about 2yrs experience, but went into a non-technical industry mainly as it was in line with my family's desire.
Anyway, due to major change in circumstance, I no longer can do that and have been considering a return to software development or similar as it was something I have always enjoyed.
However, I am outdated in terms of work experience, don't have an online portfolio, and can't afford to take a £20k grad job (assuming I could get one) as I couldn't pay my bills on that and if I got another job in non-IT field would get much more (but no real time to hack on my own projects/portfolio to increase my IT job prospects).
Those of you with families may be able to relate to this.
I was thinking of applying to big IT companies in UK (I live about 2hr from London, so can just about do a commute or stay in London during week) or in finance IT to try and get started, as they are companies with at least some job security and ok pay. Hopefully, I could increase my learning, skill, and portfolio on the job, which I'd rather try to do than wast more time trying to build a brandname for myself online before getting work.
I was wondering if anyone here could offer any words of wisdom.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.