>A robust professional network is almost always more valuable and more resilient than a MS CS. I actually think that this is OP’s biggest opportunity/challenge.

>A robust professional network is almost always more valuable and more resilient than a MS CS. I actually think that this is OP’s biggest opportunity/challenge. You are actually right about that. I do not have a robust network. It could be a negative, but I also learn that you don't have to allow negative traits to define you, or your worth. I have learned this from someone else who works as a software professional, who is bipolar and depressed. He also works at a fortune 500 making 6 figures, and takes on leadership responsibilities. He says that he hates himself, but loves his wife, and that despite being antisocial, it doesn't have to dominate him. He also says his personality and social network does not affect his ability to work, and he works hard for his team. If he can do it despite his shortcomings, so can I. Dwelling on your negative qualities are a distraction, and incorrectly convinces you that your negatives have to commandeer your self-worth. I will need to follow in this guy's footsteps. Forget about my lack of a network as something that defines me. I have to play to my strengths, and downplay my weaknesses.