Is It Too Late to Switch Careers at 28?

You're definitely not too late to switch things up at 28! A lot of people start coding later in life, even in their 30s or 40s. Since you’re already familiar with Excel and Power BI, I’d suggest starting with Python. It’s super versatile for data tasks and automation, plus you can even create little dashboards. If you're leaning towards something creative, web development is a fun route! Begin with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and later check out frameworks like React or Next.js. Remember, companies value projects and problem-solving skills over just having fresh graduates, so start building small projects and showcase them on GitHub. Choose a path, take it step by step, and you’ll be just fine! 👍

Keep in mind that the job scene for junior programmers isn’t as inviting lately, especially with the rise of AI tools. 28 is still young for a career change, don’t stress about that. Also, programming is more about problem-solving than pure creativity. Maybe look for roles that align with your existing skills while you learn coding. It’s definitely worth it, but be prepared for a long road ahead to reach a professional level.

Honestly, in the IT world, what really counts after a few years is your experience and the projects you can show off. You don’t necessarily need a degree after your first few job years. Since you’re looking to switch careers, it's crucial to work on personal projects that showcase your skills. Since you’re familiar with Power BI, consider diving into data analysis or statistical projects. Python is a great starting point too—it's user-friendly and highly requested in job postings.

I think it's a common misconception to view programming purely as a creative outlet like art. There's a lot of opportunity in programming, but a lot of it will involve problem-solving and creating practical tools. It’s great to have some vision of how you want to express creativity through code, but as a beginner, focus more on developing those essential programming skills. Later, you can find ways to combine creativity with your technical knowledge. Just keep your goals in sight without getting too distracted!

I think diving into Python and SQL could be a smart move. The job market may be rough right now, but learning how to apply Python in your current role can be helpful. Consider automating tasks or even developing new pricing models. It’ll not only benefit your current job but also be a great addition to your resume when you apply for other roles.