Getting Started

Deciding to switch careers can be both scary and overwhelming, but for me, it was a life-changing decision that made my life so much better. While looking for a new job at my previous workplace, I started learning programming independently from the internet, and I actually enjoyed it! After some time, I began to wonder, "Should I just switch careers? Is it too late to change careers at my age? Would going back to college take too long?" I'm going to share a checklist that convinced me to make the leap and start my journey as a web developer.

Am I truly interested, or is it just initial excitement?

This question came up because I wondered if my interest was just due to the thrill of learning something new. What if it was just a phase, and I'd quit halfway? To answer this, I took a trip down memory lane. Since elementary school, I've been used to operating computers, which sparked my interest in technology. I first learned about programming in middle school when I joined a web development competition in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and discovered defacing while hanging out with friends at the internet cafe. Reflecting on these experiences, I felt that my interest in programming was genuine, not just an initial burst of excitement.

Choosing the right bootcamp.

I only recently found out that there are so many bootcamp providers in Indonesia, so I filtered them based on my needs at the time. First, it had to be online so I could do it from home. Second, it had to have a job connector since switching careers meant I needed help finding a job, especially since my formal education background wasn't in IT. From there, I found a few suitable bootcamps. Then I started looking for reviews from bootcamp graduates on YouTube and asked my friend who happened to graduate from one of the bootcamps I was interested in.

Finances, do I have enough savings?

When I was looking for a new job, I was no longer working at my old office, so I started to worry, "Will my savings last for the next few months?" Daily living expenses should be fine since I was still living with my parents at the time, so rent and food costs weren't a big concern. Some of the bootcamps I wanted were pretty pricey, though. After monitoring for a few months, one of the bootcamps I had my eye on had a big discount for its full-stack web developer class, and I thought, "Okay, let's do it!"

Now, I'm grateful for the decision to switch careers. I've found satisfaction and purpose in my work that I've never experienced before. I'm part of a dynamic community of like-minded individuals eager to use technology to shape the future of the web.

For anyone considering a career switch to web development, I encourage you to embark on this journey wholeheartedly. Even though it can be tough and confusing sometimes, the results are absolutely worth it. The world of web development is dynamic, ever-evolving, and full of opportunities for those who want to pursue their passions.

In conclusion, my transition to becoming a full-stack web developer has been transformative and empowering. I look forward to the ongoing growth and learning that this field offers and contributing to the digital landscape meaningfully. If you're considering a career switch, I hope my journey inspires you to pursue your passion without fear and embrace it with all your heart.