Hey everyone! I'm completely new to coding and feeling a bit lost when it comes to choosing a career path. I've been considering full-stack development, AI/ML, and cybersecurity, but I just can't decide which direction to take. I don't have a prior interest in any specific field and I'm looking for a path that's likely to be future-proof. I'm wondering if I should try a bit of everything before I settle on one area, but I fear that would delay my progress by another 6-10 months. What do you all think I should focus on?
5 Answers
Here’s my two cents: Start with full-stack development! It’s a quick way to dive into real projects and grasp the basics of coding. Plus, it gives you a flexible foundation to pivot to other areas in the future. After a few months of learning, you’ll begin to see what you’re really passionate about. It’s all about that broad base first—think of it like building a T-shaped skill set.
For future-proofing, cybersecurity seems like a solid choice right now. While there's always going to be a need for developers, the demand for cybersecurity experts is really on the rise. AI and ML are also rapidly evolving, but they require a strong background in math and statistics. That said, the best approach is to figure out what you enjoy the most—it’ll keep you motivated, and if you want to pivot later, that’s totally fine; you'll just have different skills under your belt!
It's completely normal to feel confused in the beginning. I suggest picking one path, like full-stack, and diving in. You'll find your footing as you learn and can always shift gears later when you discover what truly excites you.
I totally get where you’re coming from; I faced the same dilemma at the start! Here's what I did—I looked into each of the fields and considered what interested me the most. They all have strong future prospects, but you'll want to choose the one you’re most excited about. In my case, I realized AI and mobile development just weren't for me, so I focused on backend development. Remember, you don’t have to stick with one path forever; you can always explore other options down the road.
If you're considering AI, keep in mind that a master’s or PhD is often necessary to dive deep into it. You can start with data science or analysis, which can eventually lead into AI, but you typically need a bachelor's degree first. Cybersecurity is definitely a great option too—lots of opportunities there!
Wow! Thanks man, you really helped.