How I became a Software Engineer with no experience or degree | my experience + tips

BABE ENGINEER15 minutes read

Valerie shares her journey of becoming a software engineer without experience or a college degree, emphasizing the importance of practical learning opportunities like coding bootcamps and real projects to build a strong resume and secure job opportunities. Despite facing setbacks and rejections along the way, Valerie eventually landed a software engineering role at a tech company in LA through persistence and dedication to enhancing her skills.

Insights

  • Valerie's success story showcases the significance of practical experience and determination in transitioning to a software engineering career without a traditional educational background.
  • The value of structured learning programs like coding bootcamps, as recommended by Valerie, can provide essential skills and direction for individuals looking to break into the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of hands-on projects and real-world application in building a competitive resume.

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Recent questions

  • How did Valerie become a software engineer?

    Valerie became a software engineer by joining a free iOS coding bootcamp in San Francisco after working as a barista at Blue Bottle Coffee.

  • Why did Valerie drop out of college?

    Valerie dropped out of college due to a lack of hands-on learning experience, difficulty finding internships, and a low GPA.

  • What did Valerie do to enhance her resume?

    Valerie worked on real projects during the coding bootcamp, which provided her with practical experience and enhanced her resume.

  • What advice did Valerie give for structured learning?

    Valerie recommended App Academy's online bootcamp for those seeking structured learning in software engineering.

  • How did Valerie secure a full-time software engineering role?

    After facing rejections and setbacks, Valerie secured a full-time software engineering role at a tech company in LA through multiple internships and job hunting efforts.

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Summary

00:00

Valerie's Journey: Software Engineer Without Degree

  • Valerie shares her journey of becoming a software engineer without experience or a college degree.
  • She dropped out of college due to lack of hands-on learning experience, difficulty finding internships, and low GPA.
  • Valerie moved to San Francisco to explore new career opportunities and worked as a barista at Blue Bottle Coffee.
  • She joined a free iOS coding bootcamp after friends recommended it, leaving her barista job.
  • The bootcamp provided direction and taught her to build iOS apps, setting her apart in the job market.
  • Valerie worked on real projects during the bootcamp, enhancing her resume with practical experience.
  • Despite struggling in the bootcamp due to lack of coding experience, Valerie saw it as a learning opportunity.
  • She recommends App Academy's online bootcamp for those seeking structured learning.
  • Valerie faced rejections and setbacks but eventually landed a software engineering internship at Poshmark.
  • After multiple internships and job hunting, Valerie secured a full-time software engineering role at a tech company in LA.

17:51

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