SelfTaughtCoder #TechBootcampSuccess #BreakingIntoTech
From Self-Doubt to Success: How I Landed a Tech Job as a Self-Taught Developer
Hi there! If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering, “How can I land a tech job without a computer science degree?” Well, I’ve been in your shoes. I’m thrilled to share my journey and strategies that helped me become a junior front-end developer in under two years.
Embracing the Challenge: The Catalyst
Let’s start with some context. Before I took coding seriously, I always had a fleeting interest in programming. However, stereotypes—such as needing to be inherently gifted or obsessed with computers—kept me from believing I could succeed. Frustration at my current job and a desire for a better life propelled me to take the leap at the beginning of 2023.
Initial Steps: Setting Realistic Goals 🎯
My first step was to set a realistic and manageable goal: code daily for 30 days, even if it was just for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Set a Daily Habit: I chose to code first thing in the morning to get it out of the way.
- Stick to It: Despite it feeling like a chore initially, I persisted.
By the end of the first month, I enjoyed coding more and felt a boost in my confidence.
Building Confidence: Small Wins 🏆
Within the first few months, I took baby steps to build small projects, even though they were simple terminal-based games. These projects weren’t perfect, but every line of code I wrote boosted my confidence.
- First Project: A 300-line terminal game.
- Second Project: A 1000-line terminal game.
Taking the Leap: Joining a Bootcamp
After six months of self-study, I decided to join a bootcamp. The structured learning and hands-on projects were invaluable, but the job market was tough.
Post-Bootcamp Hustle: Keeping the Momentum
Many fellow bootcamp graduates took breaks, but I kept my momentum. Here’s how:
- Portfolio and App: I launched my portfolio site and a small app within a week of graduating.
- Networking: Attended tech meetups and kept coding.
- Pair Programming: Collaborated with alumni to stay motivated and sharpen my skills.
Landing the Job: Persistence Pays Off ✅
After three months of relentless effort, I landed my first role at a decent-sized tech firm. Here’s what worked for me:
- Critique: Had multiple people review my CV and portfolio.
- Keep Coding: Never stopped coding, even if it meant working on simpler tasks.
- Stay Motivated: Engaged in activities (like pair programming) that kept my spirits high.
Tips for Future Tech Job Seekers 📝
Here’s my advice for anyone looking to make the same leap:
- Don’t Rush: Enjoy the learning process and don’t rush through bootcamp materials.
- Seek Challenges: Never stay in your comfort zone. If you’re not struggling with complex tasks, you’re not learning enough.
- Balance: Mix tough challenges with simpler tasks to avoid burnout.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Process
Remember, learning to code isn’t as hard as it’s often made out to be. What’s crucial is to trust the process and build projects that genuinely interest you. Don’t give up—you’ve got this!
Got questions or need more tips? Drop a comment below! Happy coding! 🚀
Do you think anyone cared about the credentials of the bootcamp, or were they mostly interested in your portfolio?
I’m asking because I’m teaching myself, am a bit obsessed right now, and don’t really need the curriculum structure of a bootcamp to learn anything and everything about programming and build personal projects. I have a solid enough foundation from taking CS classes in college before majoring in something else. But if some kind of certificate is a hard requirement, I could suck it up and fork over the money.
Do you have a college degree of any kind?