I guess you guys really need to learn more deeply about SEO.. Its not just that... I will explain how the Google search engine works on my lessons. I've been working with SEO for 5+ years now and WE SEO consultants have collaboration site and we discuss things what's in the future for us SEOs.. and to answer your question.. Yes there's still SEO in the future. Exaggeration about algo?hmmm I guess you really need to dig deep more into the deeper ocean of SEO, coz Algo changes. Think of this. If ALGO won't change, a lot of SPAM SITES rank on Google. Everyday blackhat SEOs experiments stuff just to beat Google Algo's.. So, does Google just let them be? Don't change ALGO?

Then ask yourself this... Why websites ranking doesn't stay on a particular page?

Isn't it that Algo have something to do with it?
Anyway, you will learn more from me my friend, just enroll with me on my 1 on 1 Tutorial about SEO Basic and Advance.. "Posted above"
Tbh, self-study is a good way to go. That's how I started. But you always end up looking for an SEO Professional online that you can ask for.. coz that's how self-study works.. Either you read and digest or ask SEO Professionals what to do.. Or what to study for... coz you never knew that what you're reading right now, isn't working anymore.. since Google changes algo most of the time..
Just text or call me we can work something out.