Hey everyone! I'm looking for some advice about whether heading back to school is a good move for someone like me who has no coding experience. I currently work in local TV news, which is pretty far from programming. My contract is ending soon, and honestly, the job market looks tough. Even if it were better, I'm considering transitioning to software engineering because many of my family members are in tech, and I've always enjoyed the thought of building programs and solving problems.
I think taking a year or two to go back to school could really help me learn the necessary skills, build a portfolio, and gain confidence to land a job that pays way better than what I'm making now. I know a lot of people advise against paying for education, but this seems like a more efficient path than trying to learn coding on my own while working a job I don't like. What do you all think?
5 Answers
Definitely go for it! I went back to school myself and found that my experience from my first round of school really helped me understand the material better when I returned. Plus, with your family members in programming, you'll have a great support system to guide you if you need it!
I suggest you try creating a project instead of jumping straight into school. Find a problem you want to solve and learn the skills you need to tackle it. There are tons of resources like YouTube tutorials and documentation online. It's hands-on experience that can be just as valuable as formal education!
Honestly, starting a degree in computer science might not be the best choice right now, given everything. Consider all your options and see what feels right for you; sometimes real-world projects can teach you more than traditional schooling.
Have you checked what your local community college offers? They often have good programs at a lower cost. It could be a great starting point without the financial burden of a full university degree.
I’m with you on this! School gives you structure and a solid roadmap to follow. While it’s also possible to teach yourself, having a designated schedule can really help you stay motivated. If you opt for online classes, just keep in mind it takes discipline since it’s all on you to get the work done. But if you're new to it all, a traditional classroom might suit you better!
Absolutely! If you have the self-discipline, online degrees can save you a lot of money, but it's key to stay focused and dedicated.