Hey everyone! I'm 32 years old and I've been working as a teacher. I have some programming knowledge—I've written a few small GUI programs and dabbled in databases. I've spent around a month studying Andrew Ng's machine learning course, but I hit a roadblock when people told me it would be really tough to find a software job at my age without prior experience. This totally crushed my motivation and I stopped learning. I'm curious how difficult it actually is to find my first job, especially a remote one. If you were in my shoes, what would you do? Also, is it realistic for me to pursue mobile programming and potentially earn passive income from apps after getting into machine learning? Thanks for any insights!
6 Answers
You actually have experience, even if it doesn't seem like it! Transitioning into a junior developer role is absolutely possible, especially if you focus on your skills. Companies are hiring, but it's competitive. Many got into the field in their 30s, so don’t let your age be a barrier.
It’s absolutely achievable, but you have to narrow your focus. Data and software are different paths—if you want a software position, focus on relevant skills. Your educational background might also impact your chances. Just remember to clarify what specific programming roles you’re interested in to guide your learning.
It's quite possible, but you'll face some challenges. I've noticed a slowdown in junior job offers, likely due to economic shifts. Concentrate on solidifying your knowledge in databases and algorithms to stand out.
Landing something remote is tougher these days, but still doable. The market’s tighter, and companies are leaning towards in-office or hybrid setups. If you're looking to create apps and earn passive income, you might face more hurdles, but it's not impossible to achieve if you put in the effort!
It can definitely be done, but you'll need to put in some serious effort. I prepped for interviews for three months and then spent another three months in interviews before landing my entry-level job. It’s really about persistence!
Not at all! I landed my first job at 35 without any prior experience or degree. It took a solid mix of hard work and a bit of luck. I started off volunteering at a startup, which helped me gain experience and mentorship. After about six months, they helped me get my first paid position. Now, I'm at a great company with an excellent salary and benefits!
That's inspiring! Did you have a specific strategy for finding that startup?
Good tip! Focusing on foundational skills is definitely key.