Is It Too Late to Become a Software Engineer at Age 23?

When considering a career path, it's important to understand that age is just a number. Many individuals successfully transition into software engineering later in life, proving that it's never too late to make a change. Let's explore the journey and potential pitfalls of becoming a software engineer, especially for someone who is 23 and eager to start a new chapter in life.

Case Study: The Late Career Change

Did you know that a colleague's mother, already a grandmother, was able to transition into a successful software developer? She was well into her 50s and had no prior experience in the field. She aimed for a pay raise and was told that additional training would qualify her for a higher salary. Without hesitation, she chose software development all on her own. She did not need any help from her son; she managed to move sideways and quickly climb the pay scales. This example demonstrates that age is not a barrier to entry in the world of software engineering.

Never Too Late to Start

No, it is absolutely never too late to become a software engineer. Whether you are 23 or 63, you have the potential to become a talented coder and software developer. Here are the steps to get started:

Online Courses and Bootcamps: Register for reputable online courses and bootcamps like Codecademy or a tech bootcamp specializing in software development. Familiarize yourself with essential tools such as AWS, Azure, Docker, bash, PowerShell, .NET framework, and React. Remember that becoming a proficient developer is a lengthy process and requires patience. Mathematical Skills: If you plan to progress to a software engineer, you will need strong mathematical skills, including calculus, numerical analysis, statistics, and discrete mathematics. Patience is key, as these skills will take time to develop. Patience and Willpower: Both the initial learning curve and long-term growth require patience. You must be willing to put in the time and effort. With the right mindset and dedication, you can achieve your goals.

Starting Your Journey

If you are just starting out, it's natural to be unfamiliar with computers, their hardware, and software. You may not have any coding experience or knowledge of programming. However, if you possess enough determination, everything is possible.

Algorithms are a great place to start. Once you have a basic understanding, explore a programming language. For beginners, C is a good starting point, while more advanced coders might find Java suitable.

Motivation and Perseverance

Motivation is crucial in any journey, especially when changing careers. Understanding that every new beginning is difficult but possible can help you stay motivated. Listen to the internal voice that tells you to try again and keep going. Life experiences help you discover your strengths and passions over time.

Take inspiration from your 7-8 year-old self, learning a musical instrument like the тамбура. While your confidence in pursuing it was low, your friends who started later and were more motivated made a faster progress. Your motivation will dictate your success, so focus on what drives you and stay persistent.

Personal Journey and Career Advancement

Early in my career, I worked in the glass manufacturing industry, but I realized it was not suited to my interests. When I joined a telecommunication company as a customer service support, I was initially challenged. However, an internal voice told me to persevere, and eventually, I got hired permanently. Later, I transitioned to a PHP developer role within the company, driven by my fascination with the billing system software.

At 24 years old, facing a similar situation, I chose to learn informatics, despite thinking it was too late. Three years later, I became a PHP Drupal Team Manager at a leading digital agency. Many people start learning new skills at 30, 40, or even later, proving that age should not be a limiting factor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, age is not a barrier to becoming a software engineer. With the right mindset, motivation, and willingness to learn, you can achieve your goals. Start with algorithms, practice with a programming language, and never doubt your ability to find success, no matter your age.