What’s it Really Like in Your First Programming Job?

I started my first programming job fixing bugs and quickly learned the team dynamics. Your initial focus is usually on fixing small issues and adding minor features, which really helps you get to know the existing code. Take every task as a learning experience—it’s crucial for your growth as a developer.

Honestly, my first job was a mix of learning and waiting. I'd get assigned simple tasks like bug fixes and gradually moved on to more complex features. You'll learn on the job, and working closely with a team is key for enhancing your coding skills. Key skills to have? Know your basics, use a debugger well, and stay communicative!

My first gig involved mostly writing SQL queries and maintaining dashboards. It was simple, but it taught me a lot about data handling. First jobs usually involve plenty of learning, from understanding the codebase to getting familiar with tools like Git. Just remember, every expert was once a beginner, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!

There's no single answer since every job can be totally different. You might fix bugs, attend meetings, or even end up leading a project if the senior devs leave! Typically, your first days are all about setting up your laptop, joining meetings, and learning the codebase. It's a mix of excitement and confusion, depending on the company's onboarding process.

In my first programming job as a Junior Web Developer, I mainly handled site updates and bug fixes for the first six months. After that, I worked on a website redesign and implemented a content management system. It was exciting as I worked mostly solo, allowing me to learn a lot, but the company unfortunately went into administration shortly after my big redesign.