I'm a computer science graduate with no professional company experience. I've worked on personal projects, including a portfolio built with Laravel, a chat app using Firestore to handle keys, and several WordPress sites. I know some HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C, and other languages from school, but I've forgotten a lot and feel like I'm not competent enough to work as a programmer. Is it realistic to get an entry-level job and build my skills through experience?
3 Answers
Yes, it’s possible, but the entry-level market is competitive. Personal projects that actually work can help you stand out, especially if you can clearly explain what you built, why you made certain choices, and what you learned. You won’t be expected to know every framework or tool before starting—most developers learn a lot on the job.
Feeling unprepared is common among new graduates, and employers generally expect to train junior developers for months before they become fully productive. What matters is showing that you’re curious, willing to learn, dependable, accountable, and pleasant to work with. Improve your fundamentals, practice coding problems and interviews, prepare a clear explanation of your projects, and expect rejection without treating it as proof that you can’t succeed.
You’ll need to rebuild your confidence through consistent practice. Choose one practical path—such as front-end development or Laravel—and spend a few weeks reviewing the basics while improving one project. Apply for roles where your current skills are relevant, including junior web development or web-focused positions, rather than waiting until you feel completely ready.
I’ve made a Laravel portfolio, a chat app that uses Firestore, and some WordPress sites. I know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and some C, although I’m rusty with parts of them.