Hey everyone! I'm Brian, a 17-year-old from Uruguay, looking for some guidance as I kick off my journey to become a programmer. My ultimate goal is to build a career in tech, but my current financial situation means I need to start working soon. I'm committed to studying hard to make the most of my time and I'm asking for advice on a few things: Which programming languages or technologies should I focus on first to secure a junior position quickly? Are there any free or affordable resources for beginners? What kind of remote jobs should I realistically aim for after a few months of dedicated learning? If anyone has been in a similar position, I'd love to hear about your experiences and any advice you can share. Thanks a lot for your help!
5 Answers
Programming doesn't have to be costly; as long as you have a computer and internet, you can learn a lot for free! Consider dedicating an hour or two each day. It blends well with work or college if you plan on taking a degree. You'll improve before you know it!
You're off to a great start just by asking these questions! Try learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript first, since they’re essential for web development and freelancing jobs. Platforms like freeCodeCamp and The Odin Project are excellent free resources. Build small projects to gain confidence and consider offering freelance services on sites like Upwork. Remember, consistency is key! Good luck, Brian!
Thanks a ton for the encouragement and recommendations! I’ll dive into HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and I appreciate knowing about those platforms. Starting with small projects sounds manageable, and I'll keep freelancing in mind as I build my skills.
It's good to see your motivation at such a young age! Start with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript—those are in high demand. Also, learning SQL for databases can be useful. If you're eager for real-world experience, consider working with platforms like Shopify or WordPress for customization gigs. Every bit of experience counts, even if it's small at first!
Thanks for the detailed advice! I hadn’t considered Shopify or WordPress customization, but it makes sense. I’ll definitely look into that along with the languages you suggested.
After a couple of months, finding a job won’t be easy, but if you stick with it and build genuine skills, it will pay off in the long run. You might consider IT support roles as a starting point while you learn programming. Learning consistently and practicing is what will really help you in the future!
That’s helpful advice! I’ll keep the idea of IT support jobs in mind as I progress. Thanks for boosting my confidence!
Getting a job in programming quickly is tough, especially without a degree or experience. Most juniors have to compete against grads. Focus on learning for at least 6 months to a year. A resource I recommend is teachyourselfcs.com. It’s all about patience and persistence—don’t rush it!
I appreciate your honesty. I understand it’s a long journey. I’ll check out the recommended resource and start laying a strong foundation now.
Thanks for that insight! Knowing I can balance learning with other commitments definitely eases my worries. I'm excited to start this journey!