Five things I learned as a newbie to tech

If you want to work as a front-end developer, we are singing the same song. I had been dreaming about it for a long time.

• I haven't landed my dream job at a tech componany, but doing freelance work has taught me a swarm (as in hornet are chasing you -- swarm) of new knowledge, humility, and adaptability.

• In case you dont anything about me, I'm in my 30's and got hit with one of the hardest things I have ever had to live through. I woke up not being able to feel my left leg, or control what it was doing... like having a zombie appendage. So, I put my everying into learning front-end development.

• I had some basic knowledge of programming prior, but I had never considered making it my career. Let's just say one thing I did know: I needed to learn how to learn. I want to prove to myself and I abousolutely can land that dream job.

Key Takeaways starting as a Frontend Developer

-Being skillful does not guararentee success.

• Developing your professional skills will enable you to be a valuable collaborator, colleague and consultant. This will you give you the ability to contribute to all interactions in a meaningfull way. Being mindful of who you are working with: you don't need to speak in algorithms and data structures to people that don't need it. I learned to ask questions. You can learn just as much from customers as you do colleagues. Learn how to be authentic in your curiosity about others.

-Evolving never stops

• Tech is ever-evolving - it's what drew me it. Don't let learning new tools, frameowrks or methodologies feel like a burden, it's a way to grow in ways that can be exciting. I found that learning in small chunks helped me ensure long-term retention. I had to continue to adapt, and have become an avid learner.

-Communication & Criticism

• A soft skill that doesn't get enough credit: Communication. Clear communication will help you grow in your personal life but is critical in the workplace. Good communication is not only the ability to explain, or document, but the ability to be an engaged listener. -Feedback has been an invaluable learning tool. Every time I receive feedback it is an opportunity to improve or learn something new. I learned to be open, even if it can sting at first. Getting feedback from a customer has helped me become a better problem solver and improve my communication skills.

• I actively seek out opportunities to improve, whether it's through online courses, attending conferences, or learning from my peers. Staying curious and open to new ideas has served me well.

  • Over time, I have grown more confident in my ability to tackle new challenges, even if they are outside of my comfort zone. Focus on learning principles, not just tools. Understanding core programming concpts makes it easier to pick up new languages and frameworks.
    • So, embrace the unknown! Don't be afraid to dive into unfamiliar technologies. Every new challenge is an opportunity for growth.