I’m facing a tough decision and could really use some advice from people who might have been in similar situations.
My background:
Working for 2 years as a tech consultant specializing in CRM platforms (mainly working with Lightning Web Components, Process Builder, and custom development)
Just got accepted into a Master’s program in Computer Science at a well-known US university starting in Fall 2025
Here’s what I’m torn between:
Option 1: Take the MS program, which means spending a lot of money (around 50-60 lakhs in loans) and trying to transition into software development roles through campus placements and internships
Option 2: Keep working in India, grow my expertise in the CRM space, maybe aim for solution architect positions, and consider overseas opportunities later with more work experience
What’s making this decision harder:
The graduate program is really expensive and I’d need significant loans
I do like programming and want to strengthen my computer science knowledge, but my current job doesn’t focus much on algorithms or system design
The US tech job market seems pretty uncertain right now, especially for new graduates
I haven’t practiced data structures or competitive programming much since graduation, though I’m ready to work hard on it
Has anyone here made a similar career change? Is the university route worth the financial risk? Or would it be better to stay put, work on getting more certifications, and look for international opportunities from here?
Bottom line:
CRM Consultant with 2 years experience → Got into US MSCS program → Can’t decide whether to make the jump to software development via grad school or stick with my current path and try moving abroad later. What would you choose?
The debt’s scary, but you’re already thinking about algorithms and system design - that’s the right mindset. I jumped from consulting to tech and it paid off big time.
This video shows someone who actually pulled it off. Set yourself a deadline - if you don’t get solid internship offers by spring, you can always go back to CRM work.
Having been in a similar situation, I understand the weight of your decision. It’s crucial to evaluate the risk versus reward when considering an investment of 50-60 lakhs, especially with the current instability in the tech job market and the challenges international graduates face with visas. I would advise leveraging your CRM experience to transition into technical architecture roles, as companies value candidates who can bridge business needs and technical implementations. This approach could not only address your desire to tackle algorithmic challenges but also build on your existing skill set. In parallel, invest time in learning CS fundamentals and contributing to open source projects to demonstrate your commitment to growth. Give yourself 12-18 months in this path; if you’re still unsatisfied, then consider grad school, but look for programs that offer scholarships or strong industry ties. Remember, the goal is to choose a path that yields the best returns for your unique circumstances.
Honestly? 50-60 lakhs is crazy money for a maybe shot at software dev. You’re already making decent money in CRM consulting - why ditch that for years of student loan payments? The US job market’s brutal right now and everyone’s competing for the same spots.
Stick with what works. Learn algorithms on weekends if you want the programming fix, and skip the debt nightmare. There are tons of ways to code without going broke.
You’ve got almost a year until Fall 2025 - that’s perfect timing to test the waters. Try negotiating remote work with your current employer and start picking up freelance CRM projects for US companies. This way you can see if there’s real demand for your skills without dropping serious cash on school first.
Spend your evenings grinding CS fundamentals on LeetCode and system design courses. If you can land 2-3 US clients paying good rates by mid-2024, you’ll know whether the earning potential beats what you’d get after grad school.
I’ve seen tons of developers make this transition through contract work first, then use that experience to land full-time roles. The big win? You keep money coming in while building exactly the skills you want, instead of betting everything on what might happen after graduation.
Love seeing that programming passion! Your excitement about algorithms and system design says it all - you’re definitely cut out for this. Trust your gut here - the money you spend will be worth it when you’re finally doing work you actually love.
Been there myself about 3 years back - had a solid consulting gig but wanted that “real programming” experience. Here’s what nobody tells you: those 50-60 lakhs aren’t just tuition. Add living costs and you’re looking at way more. I stayed, switched to a product company doing backend work, and honestly? Best decision ever. You can transition without the massive debt if you’re strategic. Start contributing to open source projects now, build some side projects showcasing algorithms/system design, then apply directly to product companies. Takes longer but you’ll sleep better without those loan EMIs hanging over your head.
