Hi Ersin, I think the open SF culture probably plays some part. However, I have interacted with people in academia and other fields in SF. The overall vibe I got is tech is a lot more diverse in terms of culture. There’s people from all kinds of background with all kinds of interest. Because of the diversity, I find people in tech to actually be more open minded. Also because of the diversity, there will always be a company whose culture you’ll like and who in turn likes you back.
Can’t really say the same about academia and medicine. Yes you need to stand out, but in their terms, not your own. So as far as interest and culture goes, it feels like it’s better and way safer to blend in. Even in SF, I don’t think I’d get into med school or grad school with the writing and instagram posts I have (though they are in my opinion completely normal and harmless).
So yes, Bay Area openness could have helped contribute to my positive experience with tech, but the openness is not sufficient by itself.
