While some argue that programming might soon be taken over by artificial intelligence, the reality is that programming remains a highly valued skill. Today, it is still essential across many industries.
Despite the growing demand for programming skills, many people shy away from pursuing them, believing that a university degree in computer science is the only path to a successful career in this field.
However, a year ago, one Reddit user set out to challenge this notion by sharing his journey. He went from having no programming knowledge to securing his first developer job in just one year.
The Beginning of the Journey
The Reddit user, known as ‘Intelligent-Lock-623,’ decided to take the self-taught route to learn programming. He started with FreeCodeCamp, focusing on the JavaScript section, and supplemented his studies with The Odin Project, which offers a strong foundation in web development.
It wasn’t easy at first. He openly admits that even basic concepts, like reversing a text string, were confusing to him in the beginning.
But he didn’t give up. Within just two months, he had built a fairly decent website using HTML and CSS, and he even completed an “Etch a Sketch” project using JavaScript and DOM manipulation.
Once he discovered his passion for programming, our protagonist decided to enroll in an intensive bootcamp. For the next four months, he committed 9 to 10 hours a day to studying and working on projects.
During this period, he developed a 2D collision video game and created two social media clones as part of his class assignments. This intense focus was key to solidifying his skills and preparing him for a career in the field.
His journey demonstrates that with the right dedication and strategy, it’s entirely possible to break into programming without a computer science degree.
Job Search and the Importance of Practical Experience
After completing the bootcamp, he faced the daunting task of finding a job. Knowing that self-taught developers often face skepticism and rejection, he was determined to overcome these obstacles.
Over the next six months, he actively participated in two hackathons, volunteered daily in a developer community, and built three complex applications. These projects included integrating AI, health APIs, location services, and even creating a streaming platform for uploading game clips.
These projects not only helped him gain practical experience, but also served as strong evidence of his technical skills and his ability to quickly learn and apply new knowledge. Including them on his CV made a significant impact.
In the end, all his hard work paid off with a job offer as a developer, earning an annual salary of $75,000. While this may not be a standout figure in major tech hubs, it marked a significant $50,000 increase from his highest previous annual income.
Essential Tips for Becoming a Self-Taught Developer
If you’re looking to break into programming without a traditional computer science degree, there are key strategies that can significantly boost your chances of success.
- Learn the Basics: Start with free resources like FreeCodeCamp and The Odin Project to build a strong foundation in programming.
- Alternative Education: Bootcamps and online courses can be just as effective as a traditional college degree, especially when paired with a strong desire to learn.
- Practical Projects: Work on real-life projects that you can include in your portfolio. These projects showcase your practical skills to potential employers.
- Community Involvement: Engage with developer communities, participate in hackathons, and look for volunteer opportunities to gain experience and expand your network.
- Persistence and Dedication: Stay fully committed to your programming journey. Make it your plan A and B, and be prepared to push through any moments of discouragement.
