My Journey to Landing a Software Engineering Job: Lessons Learned

TLDRAfter years of self-studying, boot camps, and perseverance, I finally landed my first software engineering job. My journey was challenging, but I learned valuable lessons along the way.

Key insights

🔑Self-studying alone may not be enough to land a software engineering job. Consider other options like boot camps or a formal education.

💡Failing to land a job initially doesn't mean you should give up. Keep pushing yourself, learning, and improving your skills.

🔍Expanding your job search beyond top-tier companies can increase your chances of getting hired.

🎓Continuing to learn, even after completing a boot camp or degree, is crucial for staying competitive in the industry.

🗓️Finding a supportive community and setting a daily study schedule can help you stay motivated and make progress in your job search.

Q&A

Is self-studying enough to become a software engineer?

Self-studying can help, but it might not be enough to land a job. Consider other options like boot camps or pursuing a formal degree.

How long did it take you to find a job?

It took me about a year and a half of self-studying and attending a boot camp before landing my first job.

Did you face any challenges during your job search?

Yes, I faced numerous challenges, including rejection, lack of experience, and competition from other candidates.

What advice do you have for aspiring software engineers?

Keep pushing yourself, never stop learning, and don't get discouraged by setbacks. Stay motivated, build a strong portfolio, and network with others in the industry.

How important is continuous learning in the software engineering field?

Continuous learning is essential in the software engineering field. Technology evolves rapidly, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and skills is crucial for career growth.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, I share my journey to landing my first software engineering job.

01:43I started my journey with self-studying and exploring iOS development.

03:48After struggling to find a job, I decided to attend a boot camp to improve my skills.

07:34I faced challenges and failures along the way, but I never gave up.

09:59Applying for any job and staying motivated were key strategies I used.

11:24It took me about a year and a half to finally land a job.

11:53Continuous learning and staying updated are crucial in the software engineering field.

12:20My advice to aspiring software engineers is to never stop learning and stay motivated.