Should I Learn Julia or Go in 2020?

Choosing the right programming language is a crucial decision that can shape your career path. Both Go and Julia are gaining popularity, but their suitability varies depending on your goals and interests. Let's explore the strengths and applications of both languages to help you decide!

Understanding the Context

The choice between Go and Julia ultimately depends on your future plans and the type of projects you aspire to work on. If you're interested in backend infrastructure, blockchain development, or general web development, Go might be the better fit. However, if your interests lie in scientific computing, data science, or academic research, Julia could be a more suitable choice.

Best Fit for Go

Go (also known as Golang) is incredibly efficient and well-suited for backend development. It stands out for its simplicity, concurrency support, and efficient compilation. Organizations and developers frequently use Go for building highly scalable and high-performance applications. Many prominent companies are already using Go, and as a result, there is a growing demand for skilled Go programmers. If you are eager to contribute to backend infrastructures, blockchain projects, or handle complex distributed systems, Go is a strong candidate.

Optimal for Julia

Julia is gaining recognition in the scientific computing and data science communities due to its ability to perform complex computations at high speeds. It combines the ease of use of Python with the performance of C, making it attractive for researchers and data scientists. However, despite its promising features, Julia is not yet a widespread language in the professional realm. Job postings specifically mentioning Julia are very rare as of 2020. While experimenting with new languages is exciting and enriching, if you are looking to start a career and see immediate job opportunities, Julia may not be the best choice at this stage.

Starting with Python/JavaScript

Learning Python or JavaScript first can be a solid foundation, especially if you are just beginning your programming journey. These languages have vast ecosystems and extensive support, which can make your learning process smoother and more rewarding. Their widespread usage means you will likely find numerous resources and communities to assist you. Moreover, the industries are always looking for developers who can leverage these languages effectively, reducing the risk of entering a cold start phase in your career.

Communities and Job Markets

The strength of a language often lies in its community and job market. Go has a robust community and a growing job market. Many tech companies are actively hiring Go developers, particularly in Berlin, where demand is high and salaries are competitive. Julia, on the other hand, currently has a smaller and less developed community. While it is gaining traction, particularly in academic circles, the professional job market is not yet as mature as for some other programming languages.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice between Julia and Go (or any other language) should be based on your long-term career goals and the specific needs of your projects. If you are looking for immediate job opportunities and a strong community, Go might be the better choice. However, if you are passionate about scientific computing and data science, and you are willing to contribute to the growth of Julia, it could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. Both languages offer unique advantages, and your decision should reflect your particular interests and career aspirations.