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Comment by Xenoamorphous | Hacker News Reader

> If only I got a penny for every time someone said: you don’t look like a computer scientist

I’m a guy and I’ve been told multiple times I don’t look like a software developer. I think it can happen to anyone who doesn’t fit the stereotype of nerdy person portrayed in films and TV.

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But I don't think it injures you. And I see why it's harmful to classes of people where there is a really some likelihood they don't fit in, unlike most dudes.

You should probably let them decide for themselves whether it injures them.

I have been told I look like a software engineer or a maths teacher all the time.

I'm fairly sure it has nothing to do with how I dress or look but simply because of stereotypes associated with Indians. If I was whiter, people would say fitness coach.

I have been told many times that I do not look like an engineer because I do not present as a nerdy anime type. I can say with absolute certainty that this perception has caused harm because they believe that my interest in science and computers is purely superficial/for profit, and thus believe that I must not be as skilled as the dungeons and dragons people. This happened when I was in school and continues to happen 20 years later. The upside is I probably get more speaking and social invites and opportunities. The downside is that they chose me because they think I am less skilled, and therefore am more suited to bridge the gap between engineering and non-technical roles.

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