" I actually started off majoring in computer science, but I knew right away I wasn’t going to stay with it. It was because I had this one professor who was the loneliest, saddest man I’ve ever known. He was a programmer, and I knew that I didn’t want to do whatever he did. "
- J. Cole

The quote discusses an individual's journey through college where they initially began their studies in computer science but quickly realized that it was not the path for them due to a particular professor’s influence. This person found the professor, who dedicated his life to programming, to be isolated and unhappy, which made them question if they wanted to follow a similar career trajectory.

The deeper meaning of this quote delves into how significant influences during formative years can shape one's decisions and future directions. The speaker reflects on the importance of role models in choosing a career path, noting that seeing the negative aspects of someone’s life dedicated to their profession was enough for them to reconsider their own aspirations. This highlights the impact that personal experiences and observations have on our choices, suggesting that understanding both the positive and potentially less desirable outcomes of different paths is crucial before committing fully.

J. Cole, the author of this quote, is an American rapper, record producer, and songwriter known for his insightful lyrics that often draw from personal experiences and reflections on society. His comment about choosing a career path away from computer science reveals his tendency to explore themes such as self-discovery, social issues, and individual growth in his work.