My Path to Fullstack Developer

My Path to Fullstack DeveloperBlog Image

#fullstack

#self-taught

#coding journey

😇 Share It:

In a world where technology is constantly evolving, the path to becoming a fullstack developer can seem daunting, especially for those who choose to go it alone. My journey, which took me from a novice to a Junior Fullstack Developer in just eight months, is a testament to the power of determination, self-learning, and strategic skill-building. Here’s a detailed look at how I navigated this challenging yet rewarding path.

Starting from Scratch: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

Every journey begins with a single step, and mine started with the basics of web development: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These foundational technologies are the backbone of any web development project.

  • HTML (HyperText Markup Language) I began by understanding the structure of web pages. HTML was my introduction to creating and organizing content on the web.
  • CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) Once I was comfortable with HTML, I moved on to CSS to learn how to style my web pages. This included everything from layouts and colors to fonts and responsiveness.
  • JavaScript The next step was JavaScript, which added interactivity to my web pages. I learned the basics of programming concepts, such as variables, loops, and functions, through JavaScript.

Utilizing Online Resources: The Odin Project and FreeCodeCamp

Without any prior experience in programming or tech, I turned to online resources to guide my learning. The Odin Project and FreeCodeCamp were instrumental in providing structured, comprehensive, and interactive courses.

  • The Odin Project: This platform offered a clear roadmap, guiding me through the essential skills needed to become a fullstack developer. Its project-based approach ensured that I was not just passively learning but actively applying what I learned.
  • FreeCodeCamp: With its hands-on projects and a supportive community, FreeCodeCamp helped me practice and reinforce my knowledge. The interactive exercises and real-world coding challenges were particularly beneficial.

Staying Motivated: Time Management and Goal Setting

Learning to code solo for 10-12 hours a day requires immense dedication and motivation. Here’s how I stayed on track:

  • Time Management: I dedicated as much time as possible to learning, breaking down my day into focused coding sessions.

  • Goal Setting: Setting clear, achievable goals was crucial. Whenever I felt demotivated, I looked back at my list of goals and the rewards I had planned for myself. For instance, after mastering basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, I rewarded myself with a better laptop. These small incentives kept me motivated and focused.

Diving Deeper with VUE.js

With a solid understanding of the basics, I decided to delve into a modern JavaScript framework to enhance my skills further. VUE.js stood out due to its simplicity and flexibility.

  • Understanding VUE.js: I started with the core concepts of VUE.js, including components, directives, and the virtual DOM.
  • Building Projects: To solidify my learning, I built small projects and applications. This hands-on experience was crucial in understanding how VUE.js can be used to create dynamic user interfaces.

Transitioning to Backend Development: Ruby and Ruby on Rails

To become a fullstack developer, I needed to learn backend development. Ruby, a dynamic and beginner-friendly language, along with Ruby on Rails, a powerful web application framework, became my next focus.

  • Learning Ruby: I began with the basics of Ruby, getting comfortable with its syntax and core concepts such as object-oriented programming.
  • Ruby on Rails: Once I had a grasp of Ruby, I transitioned to Ruby on Rails. This framework enabled me to build robust and scalable web applications. I learned about MVC architecture, routing, and database management with Active Record.

Building a Twitter Clone: A Milestone Project

One of the projects that significantly boosted my skills and confidence was a Twitter clone built with Ruby on Rails. This project helped me understand various aspects of web development on a much deeper level.

  • Project Scope: The Twitter clone involved user authentication, post creation, and a dynamic feed, mirroring the core functionalities of Twitter.
  • Learning Outcomes: Through this project, I gained practical experience in handling complex backend operations, integrating frontend components, and managing databases.

Landing My First Position: Software Developer Apprentice

After eight months of rigorous learning and numerous personal projects, I felt confident enough to apply for positions. My dedication paid off when I landed a position as a Software Developer Apprentice.

  • Gaining Practical Experience: This role allowed me to apply my skills in a professional environment, collaborate with other developers, and learn best practices.
  • Mentorship and Growth: Working under experienced developers was invaluable. Their guidance helped me refine my coding skills and understand real-world application development.

Moving to Berlin: Junior Fullstack Developer

Upon completing my apprenticeship, I seized an opportunity to move to Berlin, a city known for its vibrant tech scene. I secured a job as a Junior Fullstack Developer with a starting salary of 45,000 Euros per year.

  • Adapting to a New Environment: Moving to a new city and starting a new job came with its challenges, but it was also an exciting step in my career.
  • Continued Learning: Even as a full-fledged developer, the learning never stops. I continue to build on my skills, exploring new technologies and frameworks to stay ahead in the field.

Reflections on a Self-Taught Journey

Looking back, my journey to becoming a fullstack developer in eight months was intense but incredibly rewarding. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Self-Learning is Powerful: With the wealth of resources available online, self-learning can be just as effective as traditional education.
  • Hands-On Practice is Crucial: Building projects and real-world applications solidifies theoretical knowledge.
  • Persistence Pays Off: There were moments of doubt and frustration, but persistence and dedication were key to overcoming challenges.

Final Thoughts

My journey from a beginner to a Junior Fullstack Developer was marked by strategic learning, practical application, and unwavering determination. For anyone aspiring to follow a similar path, remember that the road may be tough, but the destination is worth it. Embrace the learning process, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to take that first step into the world of coding.