Hey everyone! I'm currently unemployed and have started teaching myself SQL using a free course from Codecademy. I'm considering moving on to Python next. I'm curious: if I manage to learn both in a few weeks, what should I do after that? Without a degree, how can I leverage my skills in SQL and Python to secure a job? It seems like most positions in Data and similar fields require degrees or more advanced qualifications. Do degrees cover these languages in their curriculum? I want to know what I can realistically achieve by learning these languages. Just building projects like SQL queries feels insufficient for meaningful work. Have any of you managed to get jobs in tech through self-teaching, and what was your experience like?
4 Answers
I think learning SQL and Python in just a few weeks is a steep hill to climb. While it's not impossible to get the basics down quickly, mastering them enough to land a job could take closer to 2-4 years of dedicated practice. Maybe consider doing freelance projects or internships to build your portfolio. It’s tough competing against candidates with degrees who have a few years of experience, but gaining some practical skills could help a lot!
If you don’t have a degree, it could be hard to land jobs that require one. There are tons of qualified individuals with degrees applying for the same positions, and employers often filter based on that.
It’s true that the difference between learning through a course and applying that knowledge in a job is huge. Degrees not only cover Python and SQL but also teach vital concepts like algorithms and testing that are crucial for real-world applications. Getting a job without a degree can be tough, but if you can build a solid portfolio showcasing your work, it could help. You might also want to look into internships or online consulting to gain experience.
That makes a lot of sense! I guess I need to focus on understanding the concepts behind coding, not just following tutorials.
I’m having some issues accessing the free Codecademy courses. It keeps prompting for payment when I reach a certain point. Anyone else face this?
Totally agree! It’s like people often underestimate the time it takes to really get good at these skills. Having projects in your portfolio makes a big difference in how you present yourself to employers.