Been programming for 3 years now, self-taught but decided couldn't find any job and decided to enroll in college. The teachers are the worst, if I listen to them word for word I get confused about concepts I already know, they're classes are really slow and the teacher focus on a handful of student who slow down the whole class and I'm afraid by the end of the semester they will be rushing.

Education opens doors. Actual learning is about investing in yourself in your own time.

Would not have high expectations if you're already experienced IMO.

I did the same thing you did.

Don't waste your time in class other than knowing what topic you're reviewing.

Work ahead in the book. Your class will never get more than halfway into it.

Work on your final project though the entire semester, working every topic you review in class into it.

Make it the best damn final project you can make.

Keep your projects and use them to show your process and skill for job applications.

Network through your teacher. They may seem like an idiot, but they are all well connected idiots that can lead to good job placement.

Finally, school doesn't stop at the end of term. Keep pushing yourself forward, be the best you can be.

May the odds ever be in your favor.

Edit: oh yeah, that paper you get when finish opens doors you never saw, it doesn't tell anyone anything about your skill level.

Academia and industry are unfortunately quite disconnected in the world of software. Expect this going forward my dude

Go for that degree, you’ll have a harder time finding a job without it if you’re in the US. It sucks but I’m not the one who makes the rules. Note: I didn’t say it’s IMPOSSIBLE to get a job without one. I don’t agree with stupid HR and their stupid standards but they are sadly there

came here to say what @sariel actually said already. Listen to him

Here's a food for thought. Why do you get confused about concepts you supposedly understand? If you understand them well enough, no one should be able to confuse you. Hell, does the teacher not give you space to ask questions?

@Hazarth because being open to what is being taught can weaken your grip on concepts you have already solidified.

This happened to me too, because I went into college expecting to learn something that I didn't know. What I did learn was that I already had the education of a college graduate, but nothing to show for it