a_and

To further reaffirm your division between depth of conversation and intro- and extroversion, I enjoy small talk and deep conversation and I find both a source of joy.

Both, however, do drain me.

I have to disagree.

In the Bay/Seattle/NYC, 200k is new grad range for most FAANGs. If the parent commenter does well, they can easily hit the 350k within a few years of work.

If they job hop and optimize, 500k+ is attainable at Senior(L5/L6 at AMZN). That will cut down your retirement estimates heavily especially if you're willing to relocate to LCOL down the line.

In my experience this is entirely incorrect. Being a strong outside candidate (assuming "strong"=="good at leetcode") is going to make you much more attractive then hoping you're noticed internally.

You're likely to get more bang for your buck by spending your time grinding Leetcode, than learning how to be a data analyst and networking your way into a SWE position.

Context: Was Sr+ at a FAANG, have had offers from 2 others.