Hey everyone! I recently graduated with a degree in Software Engineering, and honestly, I feel pretty lost right now. I spent four years in university, and I still feel like my programming skills are weak. It's discouraging, and to make matters worse, I'm not even sure if I really enjoy this field. I'm torn between two options: should I start taking more courses to strengthen my basics, or should I think about switching fields altogether? There are so many programming concepts I'm not clear on, and I feel overwhelmed and confused. If anyone else has faced this kind of uncertainty, I would really appreciate your advice! How did you find your direction? Should I stick it out and rebuild my foundational skills, or is it time to explore other career paths? Thanks for any insights you can share!
7 Answers
If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider applying to a larger company where you can be part of a team. It’s a great way to 'practice with purpose' alongside more experienced colleagues, which could really boost your confidence and skills.
Try coding in a distraction-free environment, maybe at night when it’s quiet. Spend a week or two on small tutorials and projects to see if you can grasp the concepts better. Just because you’re feeling lost now doesn’t mean the field isn’t for you; it might just be the environment or the role you need to change.
Thanks! That sounds like a good plan.
I've realized that a traditional software engineering role might not be my thing either. I just applied everywhere and landed a job that involved SQL, which is interesting to me. It's good to keep trying different things until you find the right fit.
It's totally normal to feel lost after graduation. Instead of diving into more courses, try building one small project with the skills you already have. It could be something simple, like a personal website or a habit tracker. This way, you can see if you actually enjoy the process of coding while gradually rebuilding your skills.
That's solid advice! I keep hearing that building small projects can really help me gain confidence.
I’m in a similar situation! The pressure of AI replacing jobs is daunting, and even with my degree, I feel lost. I just need some solid resources to learn effectively, so I can figure things out.
I totally understand, it's a tough time for us all!
Honestly, you can find a random job in various fields. Just start somewhere and keep practicing in your free time. If you really dislike it, you can still pivot later if needed.
I guess you're right; I should just get started somewhere. Thanks!
I suggest getting a normal job, even part-time, and then focus on building your skills on the side. Look for IT positions that don't require rigorous coding tests, like IT auditing. You'll gain experience and knowledge while still exploring your options.
Thanks for the tip! That seems like a practical approach.
That sounds helpful, but how can I even get a job without experience?