How to Have a Bad Career – David Patterson (2016) [video]
Renowned computer scientist David Patterson playfully offers career guidance by illustrating 'How to Have a Bad Career,' a unique approach he wishes he'd received earlier. This engaging video leverages inverse advice to highlight common pitfalls, ultimately teaching how to build a successful and fulfilling professional path. Its popularity on HN stems from the wisdom offered by a titan in the field, delivered with humor and practical insight relevant to any technical career.
The Lowdown
David Patterson, a distinguished figure in computer science, delivers a captivating "Talks at Google" presentation titled "How to Have a Bad Career." Rather than directly prescribing success, Patterson uses a tongue-in-cheek, inverse approach to illuminate the mistakes that can hinder a professional trajectory, especially in academia.
- The talk frames career advice by detailing actions and attitudes that lead to an unsuccessful career.
- Patterson's intention is to provide the kind of guidance he wished he had received at the beginning of his own career.
- He uses humor and real-world examples to make his points, making complex career navigation accessible and entertaining.
- Underneath the humorous exterior, the presentation offers valuable insights and concrete tips on how to avoid these career-damaging behaviors.
- Patterson's illustrious background includes co-authoring the seminal 'Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach' and leading groundbreaking projects like RISC, RAID, and NOW at UC Berkeley.
- His extensive accolades include elections to the National Academy of Engineering, National Academy of Sciences, and serving as President of ACM.
This video provides an invaluable, insightful, and entertaining masterclass in career development, drawing on the vast experience of one of computing's most respected minds to guide viewers towards a more satisfying and successful professional life.