Right, "advanced" into their studies, they weren't freshman but almost done with their bachelors degree.
And yeah, I believe that most developers can learn pointers and FP, sure, but on the side with pair programming and "mob programming", while still working a full time dev job?
Depends on the company. Where I work, the answer is yes. Work/life balance is heavily stressed, which has been a surprise. However, when I started my career, it was with the expectation that staying up to date with technology would require some personal time. I don't personally know anyone that didn't start a technical career without that expectation.
And yeah, I believe that most developers can learn pointers and FP, sure, but on the side with pair programming and "mob programming", while still working a full time dev job?