I think the "first department" is those top, forefront of the industry software firms with beanbag chairs and drink bar. We used to have one part time customer service girl who's the only female in the entire team. She was sorely missed when she quit without saying goodbye. We totally understand however, there were periods where we didn't see the sun for a while. Going home for a shower and coming back to the office. Today most developers are contracted. I am not sure if it's better or worse. Don't go into software. Get a degree in something else and take some programming class.