On Reddit, one user shared his incredible transformation from cemetery employee to software developer intern in less than a year.
Under the pseudonym Pioneer64, he revealed all the steps and courses that took him from his work in the cemetery to becoming a programming expert. In a record time of just ten months, He took advantage of a series of free online courses from Harvard to master the intricacies of software development.
– Complete CS50
CS50 is Harvard’s introductory computer science course, available for free online. Students explore concepts such as abstraction, algorithms, data structures, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development. Languages taught include C, Python, SQL, JavaScript, as well as CSS and HTML for web design.
This course not only focuses on theory, but also offers problem sets inspired by real-world applications in areas such as biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming.
Students who successfully complete nine problem sets, which consist of challenging programming tasks, plus a capstone project, They obtain a certificate of course completion.
– Take most of cs50p
CS50x Python (CS50P) is a dynamic introduction to programming using the Python language. This course is designed for students both with and without prior programming experience, who want to become familiar with Python specifically.
During the course, Participants will learn to read and write codeas well as to test and debug it to ensure its correct operation.
– NeetCodes DSA Introduction Course
This course focuses on algorithms and data structures, essential elements for effective programming. Pioneer64 advanced to the binary trees section, acquiring fundamental knowledge to address highly complex problems.
– Advance a personal project
“Do a personal resume project of your own (I made a complete basic test mini-game for a website),” the programmer noted. This with the aim of motivating readers to apply what they have learned and enrich their portfolio.
– Apply to 3-5 internships daily
With the knowledge acquired and constant practice, Pioneer64 gained the confidence necessary to start applying for all available job offers.
This is key because applying to multiple job offers not only increases your chances of landing a job, but also allows candidates to gain experience in the application and interview process.
In fact, the Reddit user stated “As you get interviews, study what you think the company might ask you (for example, if the post mentions REST API and OO programming, memorize what Rest APIs and the pillars of Oop).”
He also noted the importance of attending events to network with other programmers and potential employers.
While Pioneer64 didn’t mention which company he works for now, here is a list of companies that often look for software developers for their projects:
– Technology companies: From startups to large technology corporations such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, etc.
– Technological consulting: Companies that offer consulting services in software development and technological solutions.
– Financial sector: Banks, financial institutions and fintechs that need developers for financial management systems, payment platforms, etc.
– Health sector: Hospitals, clinics and medical technology companies that develop software for patient management, medical data analysis, etc.
– Education: Educational institutions and e-learning platforms that require software development for school administration and creation of educational content.
It is not the same salary in all companies, but for example, OpenAI offers $310,000 annually to its data analysts. Amazon offers its senior software development engineers in New York up to $261,500 per year.
