Hey everyone! I'm currently a 2nd-year student studying Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and I'm seeking advice on when it's appropriate to start applying for Software Engineering (SWE) or DevOps roles. I've been learning independently and tackling some intense topics—I've gone through books like 'C: How to Program', 'Object-Oriented Software Construction' by Bertrand Meyer, and 'Introduction to Algorithms' (CLRS), plus MIT lectures. I've also covered various math concepts, compiler basics, operating systems, system programming, and even AI and machine learning. My worry is not having a mentor to guide me on whether I'm on the right track or when I should begin applying for jobs. I want to shift towards DevOps or SWE but I'm unsure about what skills or experience are necessary to be considered 'ready'. Any advice on whether I'm missing something or what steps to take next would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Honestly, if you're just in your 2nd year, take a breath and enjoy your time at university! There's no rush for DevOps. Focus on absorbing as much knowledge as you can in your classes. Once you get your degree, aim for a general SWE position, ideally backend or full stack. After gaining a few years of experience, then start thinking about transitioning into a DevOps role—it's a gradual process!
I think you're mistaken if you think you can ever feel fully prepared! Just dive in and start applying. Real-world experience is what'll make you ready, so don’t hesitate to take the leap. The sooner you start, the better you'll get!
It sounds like you're a bit lacking in practical networking knowledge. Are you familiar with concepts like routing protocols, OSI layers, and the differences between TCP and UDP? These are crucial for DevOps. You should also get comfortable with CI/CD processes—do you know how to set up a deployment pipeline? It's not enough to just read about it; you need hands-on experience. Try deploying an old app or database and practice updating it without downtime. Working with virtual machines and containers at home can be a game changer. That's how you'll truly understand DevOps!
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