What are my chances of starting a career in software development at 40?

Honestly, age isn’t the biggest hurdle. I’ve seen people in their 30s and 40s ramp up faster than many fresh grads just because they know how to learn quickly and stay disciplined. Build a solid portfolio with useful projects, and that will speak volumes.

It’s doable, but it will be challenging. Getting a role usually takes time and experience. If you're genuinely passionate about programming and are committed to learning and applying for a few years, you can absolutely make it!

Absolutely, you have a chance! Even though AI is changing the landscape, there are still many programming jobs available. If you enjoy coding, that’s a great start. I recommend trying to build something real—not just following tutorials—to strengthen your skills.

As someone who’s self-taught and now a senior developer, I can say it took me a couple of years to land my first job, but it was definitely worth it. Once you're in, navigating the job market becomes easier; great developers are always in demand!

While yes, you can break in, just keep in mind the market is a bit tricky right now. I recommend getting some internships before you graduate, and be open to relocating—flexibility can really open doors.