I'm 28 years old with no degree and limited work experience, mainly doing survey tasks. Unfortunately, I can't get loans for college, and while there's a program that can fund 40% of my education, it's still quite expensive. I'm feeling overwhelmed, and I need to decide soon. IT and marketing feel boring to me, and seem too social, but I worry that programming could be too challenging since I struggle with math and have learning difficulties. I tried learning web development on my own a couple of times, and even the basics were really tough. If I choose software development and stick it out, could I make it? I do have limited funds, and with an unstable job, I need to train or earn a degree quickly.
5 Answers
Ask yourself if you really want to be in software development. It’s not going to be any easier than other fields. If math has been tough for you and programming hasn't clicked yet, maybe it’s not worth the college investment unless you're truly passionate about it.
Have you considered alternatives? Tech support could be more manageable and often pays well without heavy math. If coding is too daunting, maybe look into trades like being a mechanic or electrician, which are in demand and require less direct customer interaction.
You might want to try a free coding bootcamp first, like App Academy, or even check out CS50x for a taste of coding without the financial burden. That could help you gauge if software development is right for you before throwing money into a degree.
That sounds like a solid plan! Trying something free first might give you the motivation you need without the financial stress.
I wouldn’t dive into a software development degree unless you genuinely enjoy coding and solving complex problems. It is a competitive field, and while it pays well, it can be exhausting. If you’re just looking for a job to improve your situation, explore other options that are less intense but still pay well.
If you're looking for quick income, software development might not be the way to go, as it can take years before you land a decent job. But it's also possible to go from being a newbie to earning money in about a year if you're really dedicated and enjoy problem-solving. If coding doesn't genuinely interest you, it could make the journey much harder and less rewarding.
I understand your concern! If you're drawn to software development despite the challenges, then maybe that passion could help you push through the tough times.
Yeah, I feel the same way. But if software dev excites you, maybe it’s worth giving it another shot with some guidance and structure.