DEV Community: SNMeans

Breaking Into Tech: Transitioning from Medicine to a Coding Career in Just One Year

SNMeans — Sun, 18 Aug 2024 20:23:00 +0000

A year ago, I found myself at a pivotal moment in life, grappling with the realization that medical school wasn’t the path I wanted to take. After countless hours of self-reflection, career quizzes, and even conversations with career coaches, it became clear that my strengths lay in being both analytical and imaginative. I remembered how much I loved my application programming electives and biostatistics courses in college — there was something magical about seeing my ideas come to life on the screen. That’s when I knew it was time to take a leap of faith and dive into the world of coding. Still, this was daunting, I had worked in research, clinical healthcare, and even in medical office roles for over a decade. It was all I knew, yet I wanted to know more.

Entering the coding world was exhilarating, but also overwhelming. The sheer number of choices alone — computer science degree, 15478 different bootcamps, or going the self-taught route — felt like navigating uncharted territory. Having already earned a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry, another four-year degree wasn’t a valid option for me due to work commitments, finances, and simply not wanting to start over. I briefly considered a master’s in computer science, but I lacked the prerequisites for that path. So, I began with self-study through Udemy courses, revisited my undergraduate course notes, and explored every resource I could find. Eventually, I chose a flexible, affordable bootcamp that focused on Python, data structures, and algorithms — essentials for technical interviews. But I knew the bootcamp was just a tool; the real progress came from the work I put in outside of it. I tackled freelance passion projects, took on paid gigs for local businesses, and immersed myself in articles, networking events, videos, podcasts, and even programming books to keep building my knowledge. I spent countless hours on HackerRank and LeetCode, expanding my skills one problem at a time. From the moment I started, I was hooked. The challenge of coding problems, the thrill of projects, and the satisfaction of seeing my hard work come to life. It wasn’t just about writing code; it was about creating something meaningful, something that worked.

One of the most memorable experiences was working on my full-stack coffee app project for a local mobile coffee shop here in my state of residence. It was a true test of patience and problem-solving. The project was riddled with challenges like outdated packages, dependency issues, and installation problems that honestly made me want to pull my hair out. Through it all, I learned to embrace the process of troubleshooting, relying on forums, videos, and the problem-solving techniques emphasized in my bootcamp. It wasn’t just about finding the right answer; it was about developing the mindset to keep going, to dig deeper, and to trust that I could figure it out.

Being accepted into Develop Carolina and landing a paid Data Scientist Internship/Apprenticeship at Booz Allen Hamilton still feels so surreal to me. It’s a dream come true, and every day I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and pride. Of course, the workload is demanding, and there are moments of stress, but there’s also an incredible feeling of fulfillment. I’ve made a huge step toward a career transition in just one year, and I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity. Each day brings new challenges, but I face them with a positive mindset, knowing that I’ve built the skills and resilience to handle whatever comes my way. What’s truly transformative is how I’ve learned to approach setbacks. I no longer feel immediately discouraged when I encounter an error or a roadblock. Instead, I see it as a chance to grow, to learn something new, and to refine my problem-solving skills. I’ve realized that I’m not alone in this journey — reaching out to cohort members, leaning on my support network, and staying curious has made all the difference. As I look to the future, I’m excited about the milestones ahead. Whether it’s tackling my first tickets on the data team, making progress on my full-stack project, or deepening my understanding of machine learning, I’m absolutely ready for what’s next! This journey has taught me that with the right mindset and a commitment to continuous learning, there’s no limit to what I can achieve.

Unleashing Non-Technical Superpowers in the Software Development Lifecycle

SNMeans — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:48:47 +0000

When we think about skills that make a great software developer, data scientist, or QA engineer, our minds often immediately jump to technical expertise: coding languages, debugging skills, AI, or the latest tech stacks. But let’s take a moment to shine a light on the non-technical skills that can be equally as powerful in shaping a successful career. These often-overlooked attributes can be the secret sauce to excelling in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) and becoming an invaluable asset to any employer.

After giving this some thought, I’ve come up with four main categories of non-technical skills that I believe are beneficial in the tech industry and perhaps at times over looked.

1) Communication - The Bridge to
Collaboration: Imagine your workspace as a bustling hive of activity. Amid the keyboards clacking and monitors glowing, there's an invisible thread that keeps everything connected: communication. Whether it's clarifying requirements during the planning phase, discussing bugs in a stand-up meeting, or presenting a project demo, effective communication is crucial in this industry.

"The challenge isn't to get better at coding. The challenge is to get better at communication"-Alex Martin, Develop Carolina CTO

In my own journey, I've found that clear and open communication fosters a collaborative environment. It's like being the glue that holds a team together, ensuring everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. In the SDLC, strong communication can prevent misunderstandings, streamline processes, and ultimately lead to a more cohesive and efficient development cycle.

I must admit, I felt a bit intimidated during my first two weeks at the company. However, I've learned that speaking up and expressing my thoughts and where I am coming from has always been the right choice. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have open dialogues with both my Booz Allen Hamilton team members and my Develop Carolina cohort members.

This industry thrives on teamwork and collaboration, so it's essential to know how to communicate effectively and work well with others. This is one of my first experiences working on collaborative projects, and I'm involved in two simultaneously - one with Booz Allen Hamilton and another with Develop Carolina. What a whirlwind! Through these experiences though, I feel I've already learned so much about combining technical communication and interpersonal skills. I hope to continue learning more as this apprenticeship program continues.

2) Problem-Solving - The Detective in Disguise:
Picture this: you're deep into a coding session, and suddenly you hit a wall. The code isn't working, and frustration starts to creep in. I'm sure that wasn't that hard to picture actually. This exact scenario may have even happened to you today. I mean it happened to me just yesterday. Anyways, this is where problem-solving skills come into play! Being able to approach an issue methodically, break it down into manageable parts, and find a solution is invaluable.

"First solve the problem then write the code"-John Johnson

In the SDLC, problem-solving isn't just about fixing bugs. It's about anticipating potential issues during the design phase, optimizing processes in the development phase, and ensuring quality testing. By applying critical thinking and a detective-like mindset, you can navigate obstacles and keep projects on track. Problem solving extends beyond the technology sphere of course. If you're someone like me who has always enjoyed solving puzzles(or detective work), this can be a great quality to acknowledge and take pride in. Sometimes we don’t give ourselves enough credit, but as we’ve discussed with our instructor, Chris, in class — there could be many personal successes and strengths we are not taking ownership for.

3) Adaptability — The Chameleon of the Workplace: The tech world is ever-evolving, and adaptability is your best friend. Think of adaptability as being like a chameleon, seamlessly blending into new environments and situations. Whether it’s learning a new programming language like Python, adjusting to a new project management tool like Jira, or adapting to remote work dynamics (it’s me! 😁), being flexible is key.

In the SDLC, adaptability allows you to pivot when requirements inevitably change, integrate new technologies, and respond to feedback with agility. It's about embracing change and seeing it as an opportunity for growth rather than a hurdle. That's also the beauty of this field though. In a way, you get to be life long student. I find that incredibly exciting. There is no room for boredom because technology is always evolving. Look at Chat GPT for example, we are already using the 4.0 version despite it only becoming readily accessible to the public two years ago.

4) Empathy — The Heartbeat of Team Dynamics: Empathy might not be the first skill that comes to mind in a tech-centric role, but it’s a game-changer. Empathy fosters a supportive team environment, enhances user experience, and leads to more thoughtful and user-friendly software solutions. Understanding and relating to your colleagues, stakeholders, and end-users can transform the way you work. It can also enhance the “definition of done” process when you keep the perspective of the consumer in mind. After participating in several daily standups, team syncs, and demo days over the past two weeks, I’ve learned that your team is like an orchestra where each musician(team member) plays their part in perfect harmony. It’s all connected really, and what better term to use when discussing connection than empathy?

Non-technical skills are the unsung heroes of the tech world.By leveraging communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and empathy, you can enhance your contributions to the SDLC and become a well-rounded professional. These skills not only complement your technical abilities but also set you apart as a dynamic and valuable team member.

So, next time you step into your workspace, take a moment to appreciate the full spectrum of skills you bring to the table. Embrace them, nurture them, and watch as they elevate your career in ways you never imagined. After all, it's not just about the code you write, but the impact you make.

Starting Strong: First-Day Rituals to Set Yourself Up for Success

SNMeans — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 14:34:30 +0000

This week was a big shift in our program. I started at my host company for the first time! Working remotely brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. To help set the right tone and keep those jitters in check, I have a few first-week rituals that I swear by. Here’s how I got ready to dive into this new adventure and made the most out of my first week:

Prepare the Night Before
Preparing the night before made a world of difference. I set up my workspace, made sure my laptop was charged, and had all necessary documents and materials ready. This simple routine not only saved me from morning chaos but also gave me peace of mind knowing I was ready to go. My Keurig machine has also been a real lifesaver with its automatic pre-heating feature at 8:15am every day. It’s been a game-changer!

Get a Good Night’s Sleep
There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to set me up for a successful day. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with sleep issues, namely insomnia, but I’ve found melatonin in combination with L-theanine supplements to make a world of difference. I aimed for at least seven to eight hours of rest each night, so I could wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face whatever came my way. A well-rested mind is sharper and more focused, which is exactly what I needed for my first week because it was whirlwind for sure.

Morning Routine: Set the Tone
I’m not going to pretend I wake up at 5am and run three miles in the morning because I don’t. My morning routine is all about setting a positive tone in a way that feels right for me. Whether it’s listening to my favorite playlist, having a good breakfast, taking a refreshing walk, or just spending a few minutes meditating, these activities make me feel centered and energized. This routine acts as my grounding ritual, giving me a sense of stability amidst the newness and uncertainty of my first week. This routine is also not rigid or set in stone. Somedays I may take a walk while others I may wake up just in time to listen to a quick song before clocking in. I believe this flexibility is great and gives me a morning routine that is both realistic and “uniquely me.”

Stay Open-Minded and Curious
I approached my first week with an open mind and a curious attitude. I was ready to learn, ask questions, and soak up as much information as possible. Despite the unfamiliar terminology used by my peers, I found that embracing this mindset allowed me to quickly adapt and demonstrated my eagerness to become a part of the team.

Plan Your Breaks
I made sure to take note of break times and used them wisely. Short breaks helped me recharge, reflect on what I’d learned, and prepare for the next part of my day. They were also a perfect opportunity to step away from the screen, stretch, and refresh my mind. It’s amazing how a little bit of time dedicated to self-care can make such a big difference in our overall productivity and well-being.

In all transparency, balancing my responsibilities at Booz Allen Hamilton with the Develop Carolina program was no small feat. It felt like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle, but I am finding my rhythm and flow. Prioritizing tasks and staying organized were key. Knowing when to focus on one versus the other helped me manage my time and energy effectively. Despite my excitement, I couldn’t shake off the nerves and imposter syndrome. To keep them in check, I relied on positive self-talk, challenged the negative beliefs, and reminded myself that being nervous means I care about doing well.

Ultimately, I just wanted to be an asset to the team. I aimed to show my willingness to contribute and learn, bringing my best self to the table every day.

In conclusion, my first week at the host company was a stepping stone to many more achievements. By implementing these rituals and staying mindful of my emotions, I ensured a successful and fulfilling start. Here’s to new beginnings and making a mark in this exciting journey!

Optimizing Your Work-from-Home Setup for Career Success

SNMeans — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 19:30:58 +0000

As I enter the final week of lectures in my data engineering apprenticeship and prepare for my first full week of combined lectures and on-the-job work, I find myself reflecting on how to set myself up for success. The most obvious starting point is my workspace. Having transitioned to working from home, I’ve been learning a great deal about my new working conditions over the past three weeks.

My Current Working Configuration
Creating an effective workspace is not just about the physical setup; it’s about cultivating an environment that fosters productivity and creativity. My cozy corner in the upstairs loft, equipped with an ergonomic chair, a well-lit desk, and noise-canceling headphones, has become my sanctuary of focus. The warm vaporwave-esque glow from my custom-built computer, complete with dual monitors, adds to the inviting atmosphere. I take pride in this setup, as it reflects my dedication and passion for my work...[though I do use it for gaming as well ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡ °) ] Anyways, adding to the charm, my Siamese kitty, Suraya, often lounges beside me, providing a comforting presence and occasional, much-needed breaks from the screen. Organized shelves surround my desk, neatly holding notebooks, office supplies, and other essentials, ensuring everything I need is within arm’s reach. This thoughtfully curated environment not only boosts my productivity but also makes every working moment enjoyable and inspiring.

Practices For Future Success
Looking ahead, I’m implementing a few key practices to ensure continued success:

Routine and Structure: Establishing a consistent daily schedule helps maintain productivity and balance. I plan to stick to regular working hours and schedule breaks to prevent burnout. Though I do not yet know much about my work hours with Booz Allen Hamilton, once I slowly but surely get used to the “flow” of things, I believe I can better optimize my schedule.

Stepping Outside: I believe this is crucial for any remote worker. Its important to touch grass so to speak. Luckily, my complex is right next to a park by the river, making it easy to walk back and forth. The serene environment, with its café, brewery, and beautiful fountain, provides a perfect escape for me. I go there to stay active and to clear my mind when needed. I’ve also been enjoying playing Pokémon Go with my boyfriend and friends there, which adds a fun and social element to my breaks.

Ergonomic Considerations: Investing in a comfortable chair and desk setup has been invaluable. I’m mindful of maintaining good posture and taking regular stretch breaks to avoid strain. This helps me stay comfortable and focused throughout the day.

Clear Goals: Setting specific, achievable goals for each day helps keep me focused and motivated. I use task management tools, like Trello, to track progress and stay organized. To avoid going stir-crazy, I also make sure to include various activities like going to the gym, grocery shopping, visiting my parents’ house, and catching up with friends. These minor activities ensure I stay active and mentally refreshed.

Anticipated Challenges
Transitioning into a new career always comes with its own set of challenges and this one is no different. For me, adapting to a new industry and acquiring the necessary skills will be a significant hurdle. Balancing learning with ongoing responsibilities is something I’m prepared to tackle by:

Continuous Learning: Enrolling in relevant courses (UDEMY, DataCamp, and BAH Badging) and regularly checking in with my mentors to build my expertise and confidence in the data field.

Time Management: Efficiently balancing job responsibilities with learning can be challenging, but prioritizing tasks and setting realistic deadlines will be key. I will also try to remind myself to take things one step and one day at a time rather than getting bogged down and overwhelmed by the big picture.

Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together. — Vincent Van Gogh

Adapting to Change: Embracing the learning curve and staying flexible in the face of new challenges is essential. I’m committed to staying positive and proactive as I navigate this transition. Alex, our CTO, mentioned adopting a beginner’s mindset of curiosity and willingness to learn rather than succumbing to the dreaded imposter syndrome. Easier said than done, but that advice really stuck with me. Of course there will be a learning curve, but it does not mean I am “not good enough.” I simply have to ride the waves as they come and embrace change and discomfort. For in discomfort there is growth, and I’ve always said a life with no growth is no life at all.

By focusing on creating an optimal workspace and adopting practices that support productivity and well-being, I’m confident that I can navigate this transition successfully. What about you? What does your ideal workspace look like, and how are you preparing for your career changes?

Intro Post

SNMeans — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:25:52 +0000

Hi everyone! I am new here. My name is Sumi, and I am a career switcher. My degree is in Biochemistry, so most of my professional experience lies in research and healthcare. TLDR, I decided I didn't want to go the medical school route. I took some general applications programming electives during undergrad along with biostats which sparked my interest in this field. Did some self-study, finished a boot camp, created my github portfolio with both general projects and freelance work for local businesses. I am now currently part of a paid tech apprenticeship program and an intern in Data Science/Engineering. Though I have worked with SQL, Javascript, and some frontend frameworks, Python is the most familiar to me. I'd like to expand my knowledge in Machine Learning and Data Science. Also, throughout my apprenticeship, I will be blogging my weekly wins, hurdles, milestones, etc. Nice to meet you all! :)

From Lab to Code: My Journey with Develop Carolina

SNMeans — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:40:38 +0000

I can’t believe I’m finally saying this, but I’m starting my apprenticeship with Booz Allen Hamilton in conjunction with Develop Carolina, and it feels like kicking off a brand new chapter in my life. I set out on this journey one year ago hoping to make significant progress within a year not knowing I would reach this point — essentially exceeding my initial goal. With a background in Biochemistry, most of my professional experience has been in healthcare and research. After making the daunting decision not to pursue medical school and instead forge a new path, I committed full force to “breaking into” the tech industry.

While my undergraduate degree did include coursework in biostatistics and general applications programming, there was still so much I did not know. I did a lot of self-study using sites like W3schools and Udemy after spending hours upon hours poring over computer science forums for advice. Eventually, I completed a coding bootcamp centered around Python, Data Structures, and Algorithms. Upon completion of the bootcamp, devoting numerous hours to building projects, creating my portfolio, and even taking on freelance gigs, I felt I was prepared to take the next step. In this case, the next step meant applying for an apprenticeship. The inner critic in the back of my head kept telling me I was not good enough, but I’ve learned to silence and reframe it by telling myself , “I am not good enough yet.”

For me, this experience is more than just training — it’s where raw potential gets shaped into polished skills through mentorship, real-world challenges, and a tight-knit community. Already, I feel a strong sense of community within our cohort. The encouragement is overwhelming, and I am looking forward to seeing how we develop both as people and as a team. After facing a ton of setbacks and hearing “no” more times than I can count, getting a “yes” was a total shock and a huge win. I must admit, I am still in a state of disbelief. Regardless, I am ready to take advantage of every opportunity and fully utilize my analytical and creative skills.

During this apprenticeship, I aim to sharpen my technical skills with a focus in data analytics and engineering. I’m excited to build a strong foundation in Python, R, and SQL, and to tackle projects that require both technical expertise and creative problem-solving. Additionally, I would like to gain a more in-depth understanding of the ins and outs that are involved within the tech industry and develop the skills necessary to serve as a mentor to others. I would love to impart the knowledge that I have gained to other aspiring engineers and developers someday.

I chose DevTo as my blogging platform because of its developer-friendly interface, active community, and great feature. Throughout my apprenticeship, I'll be sharing my weekly progress, thoughts, and observations.