I'm 23 years old and have about 1.5 years of experience in a non-IT field. After losing my job, I'm looking to gain skills for a stable career. A relative in the IT industry suggested that I learn C and C++. However, I'm unsure if this is the best path for me given my non-CS background. There's a lot of chatter about AI potentially taking over coding jobs, with tech leaders claiming it might happen soon. This makes me hesitant about diving into programming.
So, my question is: Should I really pursue learning C and C++, or should I consider alternatives like SAP? If I decide to go this route, where should I start as a complete beginner, and what is the potential journey from there? Any advice would be hugely appreciated!
6 Answers
If you're feeling anxious about diving into coding, it might be worth considering other roles that are less pressure-heavy. It’s good to learn coding, but make sure you’re in a setting that feels right for you. Don't rush into a career that exacerbates your anxiety; prioritize your well-being.
If you’re considering your options, keep in mind that C and C++ are great for understanding the fundamentals of computing and high-performance applications. They're still vital in many areas, including game development and systems programming. However, if your goal is a quicker entry into the job market, languages like Python could allow you to be productive faster.
The tech industry requires you to stay adaptable. Learning programming is great, but don’t chase a language out of fear or hype. Think about the kind of problems you want to tackle; this clarity will guide your learning path. Remember, the goal is not just to code but to think like a programmer. Fundamentals last longer than any fad language.
I’d recommend starting with the fundamentals of software engineering. Languages are simply tools to get the job done, and starting with higher-level languages like Java or Python could ease you into the learning process. C and C++ can be rewarding but are often more complex for beginners due to their low-level nature.
How much time do you think it would take for someone like me, with no CS background, to get the hang of these languages and eventually land a job?
Honestly, you might want to calm down about AI. It's not going to wipe out all coding jobs overnight; automation will change tasks, but the need for skilled software engineers isn't vanishing. Pick one language to start. As you learn more, you’ll discover where your interests lie and you'll want to explore different languages along the way.
C and C++ are just tools, not the whole picture. Learning these languages should be about interest in a specific field. What really matters is finding a domain that excites you and learning the skills needed for that. And don't worry too much about what CEOs are saying; they often don't reflect the reality of jobs in tech.
It’s true that while C++ can be a tough nut to crack, languages like Python and Java are generally quicker to learn. It might be a good idea to look at those first.
Finding a field is the challenge for sure! It can feel overwhelming when everything seems so uncertain.
I totally get that anxiety. Transitioning into something completely new while fearing AI can be really tough.