Here's how you can explore diverse career paths as a software engineer.

While hands-on experience is key, it's not just about gaining any experience—it’s about exploring with intention. Instead of jumping into every opportunity, take the time to identify areas that genuinely interest you. Whether it’s contributing to open-source projects, taking on freelance work, or even building your own side projects, focus on those that align with your passions or career goals. This deliberate approach not only helps you build a portfolio but also sharpens your expertise in areas that excite you, making your journey in software engineering more fulfilling and purposeful.

Choosing a specialization is one of the most essential decisions you'll make as a software engineer. It helps you carve out a relevant and successful work path. I believe the key is to specialize wisely based on your interests and where the industry is headed. And for that one should explore different domains, try to align one's passion with it and build strengths in it. Also, One should always be in the phase of continuous learning and adaptability. As the tech landscape is constantly evolving, staying updated with new tools, technologies, and methodologies is critical.

Teaching reminds me of my time at GeeksforGeeks (GFG), where I spent 18 months as a Member of Technical Staff. A major part of my role involved teaching Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). I quickly learned that to teach effectively, you first need an in-depth understanding of the subject. Handling a wide range of student queries—from college undergrads to working professionals with a decade of experience—pushed me to refine my own skills. It was incredibly rewarding when some students, after landing better jobs, tagged me on LinkedIn. I loved knowing that I could help shape their journey.

Once you've gained solid experience and have an innovative idea, starting your own business is an exciting next step—but it’s a big leap that needs careful planning. A great way to begin is by freelancing. Freelancing allows you to take on small projects, explore different areas of SE, and test your skills in a flexible, low-risk way. As you build experience and confidence you can gradually transition into full-time entrepreneurship. However, it’s wise not to depend entirely on this venture for financial stability in the beginning. Start small, evaluate the market, and continue balancing your existing career while growing your business. This approach helps maintain financial security and gives you the space to refine your vision.