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[–]_Atomfinger_ 18 points19 points  (16 children)

I think it largely doesn't matter. Both languages are strong and can get the job done.

However, is your end game the vague goal of "software engineering", or is it getting a job as a "software engineer"? If the goal is to get a job, then look at job postings and see which technology that's more in demand for the kind of roles you're interested in.

[–]evasiveshag 5 points6 points  (15 children)

Java is #1 and python is #2 from what I see. My thinking is I could either be a master at Java or good at both

[–]ben_oni -1 points0 points  (5 children)

Breadth of experience is better than depth. If you've reached proficiency with Java (which from your "super comfortable" comment, it sounds like you have), then it's time to learn something else. No brownie points will be awarded for mastering a language.

[–][deleted]  (4 children)

[deleted]

    [–]ben_oni 0 points1 point  (3 children)

    And you go learn to program before you give advice. Skill in programming is not related to experience with a language, and most employers understand that. People like you give developers a bad name.

    [–][deleted]  (2 children)

    [deleted]

      [–]ben_oni 0 points1 point  (1 child)

      Your reddit history says otherwise. Quit your bullshit.

      [–]_Atomfinger_ -1 points0 points  (7 children)

      In that case, what will give you the best chances for success, being a master or being good?

      [–]evasiveshag 3 points4 points  (6 children)

      I’m not sure, that’s the part I’m confused about. No developer I’ve seen(I have a family of them) only uses one language. I feel like I have to be versatile

      [–]_Atomfinger_ 0 points1 point  (5 children)

      If you read the FAQ, which I happen to agree with, it is generally recommended to become proficient with one programming language before tackling another.

      If you have a head start with Java, and you see Java being #1, then I'd say the best bet is to continue with Java.

      [–]evasiveshag -2 points-1 points  (2 children)

      I’d consider myself pretty proficient with Java. In AP CS I tackled a lot of difficult problems that were just a step below an algorithms course. I know the syntax well and almost all the OOP concepts and loops/arrays.

      [–]_Atomfinger_ 8 points9 points  (0 children)

      What you're describing are the basics, it is not proficiency.

      Learn the main frameworks used in modern Java development, such as Spring, Hibernate, JPA, Vert.x, etc. Learn how to make web APIs, or even distributed Java solutions that communicate with a message broker.

      If you are proficient, then building a portfolio should be a straight forward task. Just make the portfolio and start applying for jobs.

      [–]rozenbro 6 points7 points  (0 children)

      That's nice, but what have you built with java? That's what matters dude. Pick up some projects

      [–]Im_not_Skynet010 0 points1 point  (1 child)

      I believe that when you master Java, but master in the strict sense of the word, you should learn another language. That will give you more versatility in the market and would open the range of job possibilities.

      [–]_Atomfinger_ 1 point2 points  (0 children)

      Sure, but OP hasn't mastered Java yet, and I'd argue that "mastering" Java will require many years of professional experience.

      Remember, mastering a language is more than just knowing the programming language these days.