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Phan Uy Bình
Phan Uy Bình

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Am I able to pull it off as a freelance web developer?

Hello everyone,
I don't know if sharing my story here is suitable or not but I really need to talk to someone.

I'm a self-taught programmer from Vietnam. As you all know, being a self-taught programmer isn't that easy, especially from where I'm living.
I'm starting out as a banker, after 5 years working fulltime there, I've left my job 5 months ago to pursue my dream to become a freelance web developer.

Web Developer

To tell the truth, I don't think very much at first and just want to code and work with my computer. At that time I followed The Odin Project curriculum and freeCodeCamp, alongside with courses on Udemy and some programming books. Now, I've finished the Odin Project and got 4 certifications at FreeCodeCamp. Now, I am able to code my personal site to share my portfolio, write some tools for my own need with Ruby and JavaScript with Node.js.

But recently, I usually have a feeling like I don't have the motivation, and I'm feeling lost. I feel lonely because I don't have any friend working in tech, also don't have a network of local developers, also because I'm an introvert. I doubt my ability and afraid whether or not I can pull it off, can I have a life I want as a developer. I don't know what I should do next?

I'm feeling lost

It would be great if you could share with me some tips, your own experiences/stories, cohorts, groups, or anything would help.

Thanks so much!

Top comments (3)

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rhymes profile image
rhymes • Edited

I don't know where in Vietnam you live but what about these user groups?

and I'm sure there are others.

My point is: find a way to go to one of these meetings and seek conferences, so you can fulfill your need to connect and hopefully make friends in tech

Regarding the idea of becoming a freelancer, nothing is impossible BUT making it as a junior freelancer is harder than having a little bit of experience before diving into freelancing.

What about the local job market?

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uybinh profile image
Phan Uy Bình

I don't know where in Vietnam you live but what about these user groups?

I'm going to check those groups. :D

What about the local job market?

It's growing now, but mostly in big cities. In small province like where I am living, there aren't a lot of jobs to do as a freelancer, especially for freelance web dev.

Thanks for your reply.

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rhymes profile image
rhymes

Good luck!