trvrsalom

So as a result of an extreme example of inefficient bureaucracy, one which is probably unique to the military, I have found myself in the fortunate position of being paid to effectively work 2-6 hours a week for the next 6-7 months. It was preceded by 6-7 months of 60-80+ hour work weeks, so I like to think it all balances out.

I graduated a few years ago with a degree in computer engineering, and I am now located in a small coastal city. If you were in my position, beside the obvious of relaxing, hobbies, etc, what would you do? I have considered trying to find a part time development role (it would be difficult though as I am effectively on-call for when those 2-6 hours are). Alternatively, I could pursue a side project to keep my technical skills sharp, but I can't think of any that call me. Any ideas?

Hey all. I'm about to graduate my undergrad program with a degree in computer engineering, and I know that long term I will want to pursue engineering as a career. However, right now it's looking like my world line is taking me along a path which will keep me out of engineering (both in industry and education) for at least around 10 years. Does anyone have any thoughts or recommendations as to how I could continue to keep my skills current and employable during this time?

Over the past few years, I've had the chance to work on a few freelance web app and design projects, and I've become increasingly interested in the possibility of going from a hobbyist freelancer to a fully self employed developer.

All the clients who I have done work for the past are generally people I've met through Reddit, but none of them are the types of clients who have ongoing work or others people they could refer me to. Most of them are simply looking to get their web/mobile app developed (paying for it out of pocket), hoping that it will help them find funding. Quite a few even abandon the project a few weeks after I deliver it to them. How should I go about finding more professional clients to turn this from a hobby to a career?