I'm 23 years old and considering a career switch to programming. Although I have no prior coding experience, I'm comfortable with computers. However, I've heard a lot of mixed opinions about the future of programming. Some people in the industry are saying that the field may be dying due to the rise of AI and that there are already too many aspiring programmers. I'm looking for genuine insights on whether learning programming in 2025 is a wise decision. Should I go self-taught, sign up for an online boot camp, or pursue a degree? Additionally, what resources or courses do you recommend for a beginner? Lastly, is Python the best language to start with, or should I focus on something else? I really appreciate any advice you can share!
4 Answers
Honestly, it's a mixed bag. Programming is evolving, and while there might be a slight oversaturation of junior developers, there's still demand for skilled programmers who can think critically and solve problems. Try Python; it’s versatile and in demand across various industries. Bootcamps can be good for fast learning, but self-teaching is also a valid option if you're disciplined enough. You might want to combine self-study with a structured course as you go along.
I shake my head at the fear of AI replacing code. As much as AI can help, the real understanding comes from learning to code yourself.
I think you should try programming, but start with the mindset that it’s more about personal interest than just making a career out of it. Even if it doesn't lead to a traditional job, coding can help you automate tasks in any industry. Go with Python first; it's accessible and easy to learn, plus it opens doors to various fields like data science and web development. Utilize free resources initially, and then decide if you want to pursue more formal education depending on your experience and engagement.
I’m in a similar boat! Just exploring how much I enjoy coding before jumping in fully.
Exactly! Start with something small like a personal project to gauge your interest.
Absolutely, learning to program is definitely worth it! AI is not going to replace programmers anytime soon; if anything, it can be a tool to make you more efficient. Programming is becoming increasingly valuable, and it’s a great skill to have regardless of your career path. I suggest starting with free online courses to dip your toes in. Sites like FreeCodeCamp and Codecademy are fantastic for beginners. Many successful developers are self-taught, so don’t feel pressured to go for a degree unless you want more in-depth theoretical knowledge.
I agree! I started with FreeCodeCamp and loved it. It helped me build my portfolio without spending any money.
Definitely! Exploring Python could also help you see if programming is your thing before fully committing to a bootcamp or degree.
Don’t let the buzz about AI scare you. Learning programming is a fantastic decision because even if parts of the industry evolve, the skills you gain will still be valuable. Plus, AI can enhance your coding process, but it doesn't replace the need for human ingenuity. Start with a language like Python—it can lead to web development, data analysis, or even AI implementation. Consider starting with a bite-sized course to see how you fare and build from there.
Right? It’s a tool that can help you code faster, but you still need to know what you’re doing!
I've been using AI tools to help my coding! It’s more like an assistant rather than a replacement.
Python seems to be the most recommended, so I'm starting there too! Glad to hear others think it's a solid choice.