Learn Web Development And ACTUALLY Get A Job | Ultimate Guide

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ธ.ค. 2024

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  • @jamescross
    @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +275

    BTW, here are some good free places to learn web development: th-cam.com/video/14-xBLhZ4AE/w-d-xo.html and for transparency, how much programming channels make on youtube th-cam.com/video/c8NV9XaeoOI/w-d-xo.html if you are interested in starting one.

    • @MediterraneaMaris
      @MediterraneaMaris 2 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      hey how can I reach u privately and wanna ask u sth about my problem coding?

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      @Nebil I prefer to keep discussions here so more people can benefit from answers.

    • @rahilshaikh7899
      @rahilshaikh7899 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      And please add time stamp too...

    • @MediterraneaMaris
      @MediterraneaMaris 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@jamescross ok then here is my question. How can I make a video in one box and subtitles in another next to it in html. Like one big box inside of it one box will be showing with my play pause and stop button and while its playing subtitles will be coming at the other box which is going to be another small box in the big box.

    • @ElTopDev
      @ElTopDev 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@MediterraneaMaris JUST DO IT! -Nike

  • @igor-rp5mw
    @igor-rp5mw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1366

    For me it took 9 month to learn, like 6 days a week , 3-6 hours a day. 2 month of interviews and now i am >3 month into my dream job as senior dev ops engineer. Before I was truck driver with flat bed, and before that I was cell phone tower climber/installer.

    • @053_eshan9
      @053_eshan9 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      Sir, which material or source you used to learn. I am in 3rd sem of my CS degree but I am a total noob and I want to persue web development (I know you have to start from Html, JS, CSS) but I don't know how deep will be enough to land a job or be job ready. I really want to learn but I don't have the guidance where to start and which platform is best for learning. Sir, could you please guide me

    • @gilly2026
      @gilly2026 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Can you tell us which courses/websites/languages you learned from?

    • @iuliandordea
      @iuliandordea ปีที่แล้ว +28

      @Igor
      You are amazing going through so many careers and learning a completely different new skills set each time. You're the living proof that it can be done. 👍

    • @gabrielwelch6483
      @gabrielwelch6483 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      I’m a truck driver now trying to learn what to study and which direction to go!

    • @Strength_In_Wisdom
      @Strength_In_Wisdom ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Please shine some light down

  • @drknoba
    @drknoba 2 ปีที่แล้ว +718

    6 months of self taught programming now im on my 8th year full time as a software engineer. Best decision of my life.

    • @BadWeatherfreak
      @BadWeatherfreak 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Where did you learn?

    • @sloppyprogrammer4373
      @sloppyprogrammer4373 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      @@BadWeatherfreak I followed same path, I took some classes in CS dropped out. Got some small freelance job offers by a friend. Learned a lot of things and what I liked to do (I could already program a little bit due to CS and doing a lot in my freetime). Applied after 1 year of helping him out, now on my 9th year as software engineer.

    • @drknoba
      @drknoba 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      I learned by creating a Pinterest type application in Ruby On Rails and I used the code in that application to get my first junior position. I also got a mentor that showed me what I need to learn to be job ready and helped unblock me when I got stuck.
      If I was to start again I would focus on having really nice tests done in the framework that's most common in your programming language. Focus on developing a restful api. An app with 5-10 models will be sufficient enough to show that you have the foundation for your employer to teach upon. They key skills to show is that you know the basics and can test your application.

    • @davidstar2362
      @davidstar2362 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I need help I asked chat GPT to built me a super app it made the frame work I need to insert code here insert code here. I need the code fill in for my super app. many many many people are going to want to use it it is a chrome extension. HELP!!

    • @skellula9923
      @skellula9923 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      im trying to take this path bro, should i know more than 1 cpu language?

  • @groovelife415
    @groovelife415 2 ปีที่แล้ว +749

    I'm a senior software engineer with a little over 20+ years experience as a professional developer. I have given thousands of technical and cultural interviews over the years. The three biggest misconceptions/mistakes I see from entry-level applicants:
    1. They grossly over-estimate what is expected for an entry-level developer to know. We aren't looking for perfection, we're looking for a basic understanding of the job you're applying for, and an expressed desire to learn. So many applicants graduated 6+ months earlier and haven't touched programming since, and can't even explain a for loop. It's shocking. That's almost always a no go. Keep learning.
    2. No bullshitters. You cannot bullshit in this field. The technical questions are black and white, A or B. There is no gray area, and we already know the answers. If you start trying to lie and make things up, you will not get the job.
    3. Professionalism. You can be a rock-star technically, but there is more to being a professional developer than sitting there hammering out code all day. You need to be able to communicate clearly with business and other teams that may not have a technical background. You need to be able to prioritize and multitask. You will always be juggling multiple things. Colleagues and management will definitely help you, but you have to bring something to the table too. WORK ON YOUR SOFT SKILLS! I volunteer each semester to give mock interviews at the university here. Soft skills are almost always among the weakest of a new graduate's skillset.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +49

      excellent advice. totally agree.

    • @chibututunnamani5806
      @chibututunnamani5806 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Thank you for this guide. I totally fall into the first category. I always feel like there is more to be learnt. I hope to do better.

    • @lordrchase
      @lordrchase ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Muchas gracias por tus consejos. Dicen que tengo potencial para prepararme en programación, y el primer consejo que das es el que necesitaba justamente, pues me preocupo por cometer errores o no ser capáz de lograr una carrera en programación. Saludos desde Costa Rica mae 🇨🇷

    • @johnyewtube2286
      @johnyewtube2286 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      I have seen too many "junior" positions that require 1 to 3 years of professional (sometimes even internships do not count) to apply. I have been coding and reading books for almost 2 years but many times this nonprofessional experience does not count. Am I supposed to create a freelance company to kind of fake the experience?

    • @TheInchii
      @TheInchii ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@johnyewtube2286 look for company that would take you for free and in exchange you will get a bit of experience. Let's say extra work for weekends or for afternoon's/evenings. I know it's suck to work for free, but it doesn't has to be full time job, and I think even 2-3 months experience like this would boost your chances

  • @batmansmommy6980
    @batmansmommy6980 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    I’m 50 year old single mother of two, a litigation paralegal and tech nerd. 🤓 I’ve worn a lot of hats, run a law firm, family restaurant, and many other things, but my journalism and business degrees are worthless pieces of paper. I’m learning to code, and hoping to get my kids involved, too. I know my age is going to cause issues, but I love learning, and solving problems, so I’m ready and going for it! Thanks for sharing your story!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      That's cool. How are you getting your kids involved?

    • @whatever8243
      @whatever8243 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      I’m 51. A nanny to my grand babies and my husband retires in 6 years. I have always been the stay at home wife and mom other than the occasion part time job for Christmas help. I want a coding job I can do from home so we can travel in an RV for at least 5 years as we have done nothing. I just started learning JavaScript and praying I can learn with in 12 months so I can land my first job. My son in law is a senior designer for Amazon. He’s been coding since he was 12. All self taught. Makes 350k a year. My goal is 100k a year I am praying for favor as I know I’m old but it’s my time to live. My kids are raised and my grand babies start school in a couple years. I’m ready to live a little for myself. Let me know how it’s going. I’d love to be friends. Maybe we can help each other.

    • @aprendeabcpr
      @aprendeabcpr ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm with you 💯

    • @aprendeabcpr
      @aprendeabcpr ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I'm 43 year old mother of 2 little babies and looking for a bootcamp and start software engineer , let me know where you are going to start!!

    • @whatever8243
      @whatever8243 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@aprendeabcpr do you have discord? I’m starting with html. I live in North Carolina

  • @abakedpotato1486
    @abakedpotato1486 2 ปีที่แล้ว +235

    Stepping away from tutorials is the best thing I've done. I work on my projects and if I can't solve it I just Google and it sticks in my head. Also reading documentation and textbooks is a major help.

    • @adipurnomo5683
      @adipurnomo5683 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You said tutorial hell ? Why sir

    • @c4me540
      @c4me540 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That's what I'm doing too. This way the principles stick to your fingers

    • @bobbyeweka2541
      @bobbyeweka2541 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Can u please help me with books I can buy am a newbie in the world of coding

    • @waiien2921
      @waiien2921 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      where do you find projects??

  • @leoashcraft3
    @leoashcraft3 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1439

    3 months of learning, 9 months of applying, 5 months into my first dev job.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +96

      That's awesome! Congrats!

    • @leoashcraft3
      @leoashcraft3 2 ปีที่แล้ว +51

      @@jamescross Thanks for your vids, they're motivational and encouraging.

    • @AD-wg8ik
      @AD-wg8ik 2 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      3 months is crazy.

    • @leoashcraft3
      @leoashcraft3 2 ปีที่แล้ว +281

      @@AD-wg8ik I was so fed up with being average and not being able to do more with my family... I locked myself in a room every night, literally lost a couple of friends from going slightly crazy. I wasn't playing around anymore. I mean it was 3 months but of course during those 9 months of applying, I continued to learn but at the end of 3 months I felt confident I could land a job. I'm only making 25% more than I was making at my previous job but it's the fact I no longer feel stagnant and I'm working towards my goal.

    • @meaganpalmaira7271
      @meaganpalmaira7271 2 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      Congrats Leo! I am currently on the same path, I had about 3 months of consistent learning and now 2 months of applying. Any advice for applying and interviewing? I seem to not get pass the first or second round. It is not motivating at all getting all these rejections. Congrats again!

  • @justinrivera6749
    @justinrivera6749 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    Been learning for about 18 months. I also work in construction (55+ hrs/week) and have been averaging 15hrs/week coding. Been a long 2 years lol. About 3 months ago I really started getting to the point where I'm building more advanced apps (react router, supabase, redux, custom hookes, etc.). Hoping to be ready to start applying by middle of next year!

  • @JoshIbbotson-
    @JoshIbbotson- ปีที่แล้ว +59

    1 and a half years learning whilst working full time, about 3 months of applying, and 4 months in my first job as a full stack developer!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      awesome! congrats!

    • @ram42
      @ram42 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Can you tell me a bit more about ur journey ? What did you struggle with, advices, resources, what you learned, etc.

    • @germanpinon7627
      @germanpinon7627 8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Where did you learn?

  • @Kevin-uh4km
    @Kevin-uh4km ปีที่แล้ว +62

    I have spent many years trying to get a job as a firefighter. I currently work as a paramedic in California making $18/h working 56 hour work weeks. I'm on 24-72 hours running back to back 911 calls with 0 sleep everyday. I constantly think to myself if I could only be home learning and creating projects more, I could create so much more and prove to my co-workers they are not stuck in this industry. I am currently learning JavaScript, CSS, HTML and will be moving on to C#. I have never been this motivated to learn.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Best wishes on the journey. My brother is a firefighter and I've encouraged him to consider the switch, but so far he's been hesitant.

    • @raminbaghirov9998
      @raminbaghirov9998 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I hope you will get somewhere, brother. My story is very similar to yours. Hope we will break this vicious cycle one day.

    • @Bigcuhalex
      @Bigcuhalex 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      That’s so ironic I thought of being a fire foghter but I realize I value my sleep I really wanna take advantage of learning to code since I’m still living with my parents

    • @SworderGamer
      @SworderGamer 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Dude any update on your coding journey. Did you find a job?

  • @cjc813
    @cjc813 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Been listening to this for 55 minutes and you haven't tried to sell me a single thing.
    I trust you know how refreshing that is to someone looking to change his life and who doesn't have money to waste on a coaching program or a boot camp or whatever.
    Thank you. Thank you for understanding, and giving your time freely.
    If I have a way to pay you back one day, I'll remember you.
    Edit: do you have a Patreon or even want/need something like that?

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thanks is enough. I don't have a patreon or course. Appreciate the feedback. Glad you liked it.

  • @dirk-piehl28
    @dirk-piehl28 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    As someone with a both a computer science degree, a work psychology degree and 20 years software development experience, this content is a gold! Implement implement! I like the advice about ditching tutorials, just build something simple stuff that does a simple thing then iterate and iterate. You need quantity of apps instead of quality of apps at the start.

  • @nightlifeking
    @nightlifeking ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Took me 10 years to learn on my own. I started before TH-cam University. But I still learned.

  • @jefferymuter4659
    @jefferymuter4659 2 ปีที่แล้ว +87

    Been learning for 7-8 months. So much grinding. Just did my first interview. Was great to see what it was actually like. To really feel the pressure was pretty cool.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Coolness! Hopefully you land something soon!

    • @Cristitatavostru
      @Cristitatavostru ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Any updates? Did they hire you? :)

    • @diodelvino3048
      @diodelvino3048 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      any luck?

    • @jorik170
      @jorik170 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      any update? what are you doing now?

  • @kotakaishiboi
    @kotakaishiboi ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I have been teaching myself to code for about 6 months
    I always come back to this video every month to see what more I understand.
    It’s helpful for someone who feels like they’re not getting anywhere. At least for me it helps.

  • @DanClapp
    @DanClapp ปีที่แล้ว +7

    My story: I currently work as a full time delivery driver for Amazon. I actually enjoy the job for the most part, but it just doesn't pay well enough. I've started this journey before, but I got burnt out and just gave up entirely once I started my Amazon job. I'm picking up where I left off. I'm 1/3 of the way through Colt Steele's course, still going through the freeCodeCamp and Odin Project, and tackling some of Wes Bos's projects. I've used some of the money that I've made from Amazon to buy a proper desk setup which actually helps quite a bit lol, and I'm trying my hardest to stay disciplined and keep moving forward. I estimate for it take me over a year to become anywhere near job-ready because I'm a slow learner :/

  • @Broxerlol
    @Broxerlol 2 ปีที่แล้ว +60

    I'm a full stack developer but that really means mostly backend development and then utilizing front-end frameworks (Angular and Bootstrap/Tailwind) but not going super in-depth. We're really backend devs doing basic frontend work. It requires clients/stakeholders that understand things are exponentially more expensive if they have to be pixel perfect or want things the frameworks don't natively support.
    I completely agree with most of what you said. Getting my first job was the hardest part. After like 6 months at my first job, recruiters were blowing me up and that's continued since. A lot of what I hear about are crap jobs tho. Low pay or not open to hybrid work. Easy to turn down. I job hopped a couple times in the first 2 years as the salary increases were pretty nuts. Worked my first job for 8 months. Got a 30% salary bump at the next job. Worked there for about a year and got a 50% bump at the next job. That put me pretty close to the top of what a dev of my experience could earn and I also got a great team and a very flexible schedule. Working from home whenever I want is super nice.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts

    • @053_eshan9
      @053_eshan9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Bro, can you please help me. I am in year 2 of my CS degree and I want to persue web development. But I just am not sure where to or what to study first (I Know, you have to start from Html, Css, JS) but I don't how much time and how much deep knowledge I must have to become a job ready dev. And Yes, i searched youtube for tutorials but I'm not sure which one to choose for learning. PLease bro, could you give ma a little guidance on this issue.

    • @MilMike
      @MilMike ปีที่แล้ว +2

      for me the opposite, I am a full stack too but in my current job I mostly work on frontend and a little bit backend

    • @naquidia
      @naquidia ปีที่แล้ว +1

      HI, Quick question. I am considering doing a full stack development bootcamp. It's $4,200 up front for 6 months. They say we will have a complete e-portfolio and build a e-commerce site. Is a bootcamp worth it? Or would it be better to learn as self taught. My goal is to get a job within 1 year.

    • @tnguyen9266
      @tnguyen9266 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      U will be fine. U will have a cs degree. A lot of these guys are self taught so u have an advantage. They have to prove that they are not bull shiter. U don't have that problem.

  • @stevendoud8649
    @stevendoud8649 2 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    I'm in the same boat. Been working construction my whole adult life , but looking to change my career. Thank you for the content . You can always teach a old dog new tricks.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      thanks for the feedback and best wishes with the career change Steven!

    • @peterhuang1431
      @peterhuang1431 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      construction seems like you can stay fit and dont need to go gym much tho. pros and cons? I always thought construction earns decent money too

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I was pretty fit until I injured my back.

  • @stewheart
    @stewheart 2 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    I recommend transferring any notes to a google doc for permanent reference. It's really useful to have a refresher written in your own words. Learning about design can also be really important for presenting your projects - if it looks good people will think of it differently and see you in a new light.

  • @sullyeran666
    @sullyeran666 2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    as a transitioning professional and coding prospect, i truly appreciate how this gentleman actually gets to the point and delivers the pertinent information to what is useful to learn and why. ive seen other "how i transitioned to developing" videos and they seem to be more focused on charisma and theatrics than the objective here. thank you for the insight.

  • @Kopalchuck
    @Kopalchuck ปีที่แล้ว +39

    I’m a former Police officer and truck driver. I lost my truck driving job due to a heart issue at 28. Now I’m learning pythons with hopes of someday doing cybersecurity and also doing personal development projects.

  • @ajax1472
    @ajax1472 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    i had spent many years without doing anything due to my circumstances, but now i want to start learning web development specifically front end, i will spend 3-5 hour's a day for 1 year and see how it works, i am not very smart but hopefully i will get it done!
    I will come to this comment for updates(:

  • @mahmoudelhanafy89
    @mahmoudelhanafy89 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    i want to change my life and others for the better so i started learning how to code 3 months ago, basically i have been a physical therapist for more than 12 years and am still that person but, i listen to my old passion about computers and different technologies. i asked myself why i should work in a career that doesn't convince me of my abilities. for 12 years i saw my progress in life as i am walking by chackles. By learning how to code i feel more confident, more useful, more productive, so i am very happy with these videos James. thanks

  • @alanthomasgramont
    @alanthomasgramont 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Warning, a lot of front end jobs now test algorithms. You'll get an array if complex data and need to sort and filter it precisely. I just had this interview and I'm a 25yr vet don't front end for the last decade. But I did backend processing for a long time so it wasn't difficult for me. But just be warned, its not always simply show front end skills. In the midwest here, Angular and React are king, so know that and you'll have a much better chance of getting a job. Rarely do companies do basic html pages anymore. Also styling add-ons like Material, Bootstrap, etc create themes, which are far better than css variables.

    • @anakinvader9120
      @anakinvader9120 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for this advice!

  • @vedhneeli2168
    @vedhneeli2168 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Started my journey a little over 2 weeks ago now. Currently about to go into my final year of radiation therapy studies, however, the past 3 years or so have taught that I am not cut out for this line of work. Degree itself is relatively chill but doing my internships throughout the course made me realise that there are people who are a lot more suited than I. I am loving the odin project, doesnt make me burn out and makes everything fun.

  • @k0secha
    @k0secha 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    It’s not always just about grit. It’s about learning how to learn based on how your brain works. I have ADHD and I struggled for months trying to keep up with vid tutorials and lectures but once I started learning by using spaced repetition and pair programming on practice projects I totally excelled bc with another person I was able to start engaged. It’s also about developing habits to take care of your brain and create stability so you can practice consistently and progress. Before becoming a dev I was chronically unemployed and battling addiction for 15 years. Learning how my brain works was a life changer. Awesome vids man. ❤

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Great perspective

  • @kolt_fourty5
    @kolt_fourty5 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I love your videos. I know I’m late to this video but I came across your channel, liked your content so I started at the end and am working my way to recent.
    I worked construction for 5and a half years framing houses, apartments, pole barns and more. Worked as a farm hand for a few years then went into tree climbing for the last 2 years. Until September 27th 2023 when I was out of work due to an injury. (Not good when having 3 kids) Spent 4 months dealing with the doctors. And this last month learning html right now. Hope this works out I’ve never had this much fun learning something new. Can’t wait to turn it into a career

  • @Soosheon
    @Soosheon 2 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    I went to a bootcamp 2 years ago, but never did anything with it. I'm back into it after a year of pizza delivery and year of help desk. I remember my foundational stuff thankfully! I appreciate this info

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      it's great you already have that foundation. best wishes!

    • @BVK_LMZ
      @BVK_LMZ 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      shoulda bought aaron pauls course instead of the boot camp

  • @pixelbulb993
    @pixelbulb993 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    @devsmak I succesfully land a role as front end react dev. Report on duty dec2022. I shift my career from 7 years exp in construction to software. My self taught journey start since 2020. Your channel help me in my journey especially when we have same prev background. I wanna thank you and let u know that your video change people lives.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Congrats on the job! That is super awesome! Thanks for sharing Pixel Bulb!

    • @kaycampbell364
      @kaycampbell364 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What languages did you learn, did you attend a Bootcamp

    • @ad3rinto
      @ad3rinto 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      This is awesome 👍. Well done

    • @053_eshan9
      @053_eshan9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Where you started and what source you used to learn?

  • @theoneprince777
    @theoneprince777 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I just started my change of career I’m a structural steel certified welder but Coding is awesome it changes all the time and that’s what I love about it thank you for being a motivator I believe there’s something more in the future for web developments 😊

  • @dianamoore4822
    @dianamoore4822 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I work in Oncology Clinical Trials. Cancer trials are extremely hard to get on so the majority of my 40 hour work week I do nothing, because I don't have many patients. I have so much extra time on my hands between work and my home life. I'm single and my son is grown that I need some stimulation. I decided I wanted to learn how to code, because why not lol . Obviously I have no experience coming from healthcare, but I am willing to put in the work. I am just starting and hoping to learn as much as I can over the course of next 3-6 months.

    • @mangoeater5624
      @mangoeater5624 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I hope you made it!!

  • @sweatyearth7458
    @sweatyearth7458 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This is very inspiring. I am in my third month of learning front end work, and I am hitting that slump that is making me question everything... I am seriously going to try my best from here on out. Thank you for this video.

  • @TheKlopovClan
    @TheKlopovClan 2 ปีที่แล้ว +56

    I'm currently a stay at home mom and always found computers and technical stuff fascinating but never thought to give it a try, figured I could never be able to do it because of ADHD, but then one day I decided to watch a video on it and it seemed so simple so I was like why not just study this as much as I can and see how far I get because I do retain information well if I just study and apply it. I've been learning a little and I love it! Some days are hard though because I have an 8 month old baby and a 3 year old.

    • @tobbiesspace5747
      @tobbiesspace5747 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I’m 100% in your shoes, seeing this lifted my spirit. I’m afraid to start cos of my ADHD and I also have a toddler. Can we be friends?

    • @Microphunktv-jb3kj
      @Microphunktv-jb3kj 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@tobbiesspace5747 front-end development is very granulized and component-based.. wich is actually more suitable for people with adhd than for people who not have it...
      im more conmfortable at reading a code file with 1000 lines code.. rather than templates and components splits into many files and granulized...

    • @Microphunktv-jb3kj
      @Microphunktv-jb3kj 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      If im not mistaken, women learn stuff theoretically way better than men.. men learn with hands and by doing, and making mistakes.
      women can probably just read docs, learn the syntax and just write less errors
      men learn from compilation errors lol and try not to make the same mistake twice.. : - )
      after all coding was considered a womanly job back in the grace hopper days.. like a secretary/clerk job
      there's not many women in tech in terms of % .. but ive noticed that usually when female coders give presentations in conferences etc... they have done something complicated and good, wich benefits everyone

    • @Eleventyeleventh
      @Eleventyeleventh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I have a set of 6 month old twins!! We can do this. You’ve somewhat inspired me to start❤️

    • @1DJNjoY
      @1DJNjoY 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      YOU GOT THIS! :)

  • @segovia1495
    @segovia1495 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    3 month bootcamp a lot of studying and practice. Applied for a 3 month internship, learned a lot fast on the job now I’m a jr full stack developer for a company that is going to become a unicorn in 2023! Total 6 months.
    It’s possible network work on your soft skills and just have fun doing it.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      that's awesome!

    • @chrisw8049
      @chrisw8049 ปีที่แล้ว

      The trickiest thing for me is choosing the right boot camp that will boost you to competency the fastest. How did you go about choosing a bootcamp?

  • @JoakimEnvall
    @JoakimEnvall ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks I really enjoy your video. I want to be a web developer myself and open up my own website.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much Joakim! Best wishes on your software development journey!

  • @F34RI355
    @F34RI355 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Watched the whole thing and I believe this is a quality video to rewatch and really soak the advice. Your video is the most comprehensive and pragmatic approach I've seen for amateurs to understand the web development industry and how to navigate it.

  • @victorizquierdo5320
    @victorizquierdo5320 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    It took me eight months, since my first line of code in freecodecamp until get my offer letter in my first job at Mexico City. I sign it in january from this year as a front end dev. Right now I am learning topics of data science to apply in my phD related to drug discovery research. So it's a good life. Cheers!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      that's cool. congrats on the job!

    • @luisalexis9828
      @luisalexis9828 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey Victor, im starting in the front end dev path and i’m also from Mexico. i’m as well starting with freecodecamp and code academy. How hard was to land the job?

    • @victorizquierdo5320
      @victorizquierdo5320 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@luisalexis9828 God has been good with me. Only took me december from last year, I had a lot of interviews that month and gotcha three offer letters. I said to human resources that I am C2 proficient english speaker and that I have the willing to grow as a de dev for my phD and that kind of stuffs. Wish you success in this travel you are onboarding. Have incredible benefits and a good time if you hurry. Cheers!

    • @luisalexis9828
      @luisalexis9828 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@victorizquierdo5320 Thank you so much! I’m enjoying so far what i have learned. Wish you the best in your career bro 🤝

    • @kaycampbell364
      @kaycampbell364 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Did you complete the freecodecamp course

  • @LawrenceChung
    @LawrenceChung ปีที่แล้ว +39

    I tried going into programming for around 3montjs and I realised it wasn't something I am into. Then went onto trading and am still doing it now after 2 years. Its so brilliant to see you building up a community that is self driven and ambitious to make a change in their lives. :) keep up the great work

  • @alialhashimi7480
    @alialhashimi7480 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว

      You're welcome and thank you! Appreciate it.

  • @lizzyb1626
    @lizzyb1626 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am really motivated by everybody's stories here. I am leaving behind 20-odd years of baking and retail work.

  • @blitzritter7867
    @blitzritter7867 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I got my first job but I'm making things I've never done before, it's hard but I'm going to give it my best

  • @maazrizwan5966
    @maazrizwan5966 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    There was a lot of useful and genuine advice in this video. You seem 100 percent genuine which is what stands out as compared to many of these TH-cam coding personalities.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      thanks for the kind words

  • @herlysarmiento9863
    @herlysarmiento9863 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    James. You are one of the most articulated front-end developers I have come across... Also a fellow Utah county front-end dev here ... thanks for sharing your journey experience, very motivational, informative, and 100% real. Funny thing I started in a React BootCamp but I just finished at a job that for a year had me working in Angular apps, which I had to learn from nada. Apreciate the tips! Adobe is not an easy place to get in, so congrats! Keep up the great work here on TH-cam and see you around in a meet up sometime.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Herly. Being familiar with multiple frameworks will be valuable so it's great you got some varied experience. I usually go to utah.js conf each year so if you end going to that, be sure to say hi.

  • @henrythomas7112
    @henrythomas7112 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Thanks for the new video! I’m looking forward to seeing what other content you post! Always good to learn as much as you can!

  • @erindykes6365
    @erindykes6365 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Thank you so much for this insight!! I've been overwhelmed with the idea of rejection, what types of questions will be posed, what information to focus on etc. I just graduated with my associates but don't feel prepared at all so this is highly encouraging and motivating to push through and continue with self teaching. Thank you again!!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Glad it was helpful!

  • @morganshamburg1477
    @morganshamburg1477 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Currently, I am nearly done with my AS in Computer Science in college right now. I have been thinking about what I want to do after I graduate and learning how to be a front-end wed developer is my goal right now! Thank you so very much for this video as it gives me so much inspiration and push me to keep learning!

    • @Plasma_King
      @Plasma_King ปีที่แล้ว

      hey, is your degree a 2 yr associates or bachelors?

  • @TerribleTom113
    @TerribleTom113 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I'm in that boat right now.
    I got out of the military with no marketable skills to speak of (and got screwed by the VA.)
    My eife and I both work full time + in dead-end jobs to scrape by paycheck to paycheck in our little 2 bedroom apartment in the not so great part of town. My bank account is at 0 a week before payday most months, and my car got repoed because I couldn't make the payments, so we share 1 20 year old car that's falling part between us.
    I don't need to be a billionare buy super yachts and privaye jets. I just need basic stability and security so I can actually be a person again, instead of a dead broke cog in a pointless machine with no prospects for the future.
    This is why, yesterday, I decided to become a programmer. I appreciate your story showing that it's possible in my situation and all the info you provide.
    If I don't, I'm going to stay a broke, stressed and unfulfilled pest control technician for the rest of my life.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      best wishes on your journey!

    • @mangoeater5624
      @mangoeater5624 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You can do it!

  • @Cyber-Bison
    @Cyber-Bison 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Just starting my journey! On my second month now. Focusing on Javascript right now! I've been working at PepsiCo for the last 5 years, and also did music engineering on the side. Realized I no longer wanted to pursue a career in music. Thanks for your content, it's been very useful !

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      thanks for sharing your story and best wishes on the new journey!

    • @Sejal602
      @Sejal602 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Can u please give a brief roadmap after learning JavaScript, because I am also on my way of learning js☺️

    • @Cyber-Bison
      @Cyber-Bison 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Sejal602 Depends what you want to do. If you want to do FrontEnd I would say React since this one of the more popular ones right now or another reactive framework.

    • @Sejal602
      @Sejal602 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Cyber-Bison ok.. actually I was so confused about the sequence of learning as some videos says to learn basics of git and github just after learning j.s
      Some says learn typescript after js
      Same says learn tailwind, bootstrap
      And etc..
      So I am confused about the roadmap , that that can land me into a nice job..😇😇

    • @Sejal602
      @Sejal602 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Cyber-Bison can u please give me a step by step guidance

  • @valenciawalker6498
    @valenciawalker6498 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Currently in a bootcamp for Software Engineering.Thank you for talking about this just started a software engineering bootcamp. I couldn’t get a job either with my undergrad degrees in health admin . Currently still in grad school for MS Psychology taking a ten week SE program with Coding temple. We are learning about blackened now I prefer the front end html and css .

  • @brutaltlr
    @brutaltlr 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I greatly appreciate your time for all of us! I am new to coding and I am currently in a boot camp for a Full Stack Developer. A lot of this still a foreign language to me, but I am getting it. Ultimately, I'm chiming in to say "THANK YOU!!!" for sharing this experience on here... for me personally... it helps me focus and most importantly helps me rethink my time on things (I feel pressure to hurry things.). Again, thank you!

  • @isyreyes
    @isyreyes ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Hey James, I'm currently in a bootcamp, pretty heavy tbh, 8-5, monday through saturday, learning Ruby, Js, React, WSL usage, GitHub and other basic stuff. I'm loving it so far. I tried to learn by myself before, but now that I have a guide things are sticking and I see actual progress. Watching your videos has been really helpful to keep me motivated when I feel overwhelmed, thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us. 6 more months to go and I'll start my applications. I hope to get coding experience and eventually move into the videogame industry with some stronger foundations and more akills in other languages. I'll let you know how it goes, cheers from Mexico!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      that's awesome! best wishes!

    • @sikhumbuzodonwald6952
      @sikhumbuzodonwald6952 ปีที่แล้ว

      Is the boot camp online, can u please share some projects y working on if possible

  • @connieblackmon3932
    @connieblackmon3932 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have seen the terms front end developer 1000 times and had no idea I had those exact skills. I know how to work an HTML and CSS I'm not as great in Java but I'm learning but it is so exciting to me to see a beautiful webpage come to life. Thank you for this video.

  • @sequoiakanies2202
    @sequoiakanies2202 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I appreciate how you explained the front end race to the bottom because it shows part of the reason why full stack web development is so profitable. That extra level of intricacy makes all the difference when designing a very complex system that cannot be re-created via WordPress or Wix for example

  • @DMPDEV
    @DMPDEV ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Dude! Hi, I'm from Argentina, I lived in Ogden, UT for 8 years. Now I’m kinda lost, but thanks to this video I felt guided again, thanks for all the info you shared. I’m aiming for front end, I did a full stack boot camp, and front end is what got my attention, I enjoy seeing the results. At least for now, I feel the learning curve is shorter this way. And yeah, I hate my current job at a factory, anxiety hits hard sometimes since I’ve been wanting to change for a while now. Deep breaths and keep at it

  • @RomanWaves
    @RomanWaves 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    man this incredible. I am in the process of looking for jobs after i finished a 6 month frontend bootcamp and i can relate so much to what you offered here. thank you for that amazing overview, you managed to press so much value and information into such a short amount of time !

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      thanks. best wishes on your new journey!

  • @catherinesmart5000
    @catherinesmart5000 2 ปีที่แล้ว +62

    I’m literally just starting. Hoping to learn over the course of the next year or two because I’m not a fast learner and I have a lot going on. But I’m motivated. Thank you for this!

    • @stevendoud8649
      @stevendoud8649 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Same here good luck on your adventure!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      best wishes on your journey!

    • @BVK_LMZ
      @BVK_LMZ 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      so Smart

    • @luisf7105
      @luisf7105 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Stay focused. I'm the same way, I need to sit with the material a bit longer than most, before it clicks. Don't give up, no matter what, you'll get there!👊🏽

    • @CJ_Figy
      @CJ_Figy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Where are you right now? I'm currently doing CS50.

  • @bz101
    @bz101 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    such genuine content. especially the mid last part was so valuable. deserves more subs

  • @cryptotechhelp1459
    @cryptotechhelp1459 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I am a new programmer and am definitely bookmarking this video to refer to later, perhaps many times. This video deserves at least two viewings, once to try and grasp the big picture and a following time making as many notes as possible which are relevant to your own situation. Learning javascript and React are good choices, PHP is insane garbage, CSS is written by Satan if it won't do what you want anyway and you can't figure that out. I am still glad about knowing all the backend stuff by now but it might be nice to never think of it in a "hands on" way ever again thanks to Django and Python, and a little advice from Chat-GPT.

  • @gabrieldavila1866
    @gabrieldavila1866 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I've been in the fitness industry for the past 6 years. I love it, but can't do it forever as a coach. I've been learning for the past 10 months, going to work on my resume and portfolio soon. My hope is to work in tech health/fitness, I think the bridge between them can still use a lot of work.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      that's a great idea to leverage your existing experience

  • @BartMolkenboer
    @BartMolkenboer 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video, subscribed! In my case I started developing just html, css and jQuery 13 years ago. I always preferred building everything from scratch including the PHP backend and SAAS like projects, and recently started using NextJS with React and I am sold big time to the new NextJS framework. NextJS is amazing together with ChatGPT now a days life hasn't been better like this in a long time!

  • @AIGirl779
    @AIGirl779 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much for all the information you have shared if this sort of content was shared by someone else he/she could link a hundred companies link and sponsor their useless courses to make money but you did it without covering or including a third party to your success or others. great job! I'm software developer with 12 yr of experience and agree with all you shaed

  • @briana.9395
    @briana.9395 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Good on you that you were able to transition from construction to web development, self taught at that.
    I've had a recruiter try to belittle me because after getting laid off from my job, I picked up some general labour work in the meantime. I worked in the mechanical engineering technology field for 10 years. It takes courage fall back temporarily on your profession if it means your survival, and even embark on a career change at that point if it means better outcomes. And it takes a considerable amount of discipline to be able to sit down and teach yourself a new skill such as coding.
    The problem with companies is that at the forefront there are too many gate-keeping douchbags who forget that they are dealing with people. These smug recruiters will not make me feel bad about my circumstances one bit! They couldn't do what I'm doing. If they were in my position they'd probably give up and cry.

    • @5FT6MAN
      @5FT6MAN 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      yes yes the gate keeping is real. Alas, we move. Good luck!

  • @Spearz_
    @Spearz_ ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Currently looking for my first internship. Great stuff to know to put me on the right path. Thank you.

  • @Exdindia22
    @Exdindia22 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am an architect and now I am looking forward to see that transition which went through. I just completed my masters in Estonia. fingers crossed. Thanks for this.

  • @__jmarcelo__
    @__jmarcelo__ หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I’m currently working as a pool guy and IT SUCKS!!
    I’ve been learning web dev on and off for about three years now. I’d say I know a good amount of stuff on the topic, but I’ve never had the confidence to actually apply for any jobs because I always think they would judge me because I don’t have a degree or bootcamp to show (I actually went to college for comp sci but never finished the degree). Because of that, I always give up on learning and spend months doing nothing to improve my life. However, now I finally took the step to join a bootcamp (it starts in a couple months), and I have never been more excited to learn coding again.
    I know people don’t NEED a bootcamp to get a development job but I just feel more comfortable having something that shows I’ve at least spent some time studying and that I studied the right stuff to be able to work as a developer.
    I actually watched your video during one of the times I tried to get back into learning to code and it got me motivated, but like always, I never actually applied for any jobs and ended up giving up. But, like I said, I’ll be doing a bootcamp in a couple months and watching videos like this really help me, so thank you 😁

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  หลายเดือนก่อน

      It's great to see you're motivated again. You've got this!

  • @ssniiper2853
    @ssniiper2853 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My story is kind of similar to yours, I graduated from Civil Engineer, I was hopping to work with my dad in his construction company but he lost the company a year before I graduate, during quarentine I was trying to find some jobs but most of them were for a very low salary and my thought was that any other person without a degree could do the same job so talking with a friend he told me about programming and last year I started learning to code now I know Java, made an JavaFx app, and currently learning Javascript to build a portfolio I'm exited to work in this industry because I'm very passionate to code sometimes I lost my sense of time while coding, i start coding in the morning and suddenly it's night time, sorry if my English is bad I'm a native Spanish speaker but love your story and tips

    • @DavidFelipeSolisH
      @DavidFelipeSolisH ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm also a Civil Engineer in pretty much the same situation than yours! Hahaha, I wish you the best (also a Spanich speaker here, from Colombia).

  • @janinecarreon4532
    @janinecarreon4532 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Thanks for making and sharing this content. This gives clarity and detailed info on my vague roadmap. I have been learning front end dev for three months, still on to learning HTML, CSS and the fundamentals of computer science from CS50. Your videos are encouraging. Thank you 😊

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Glad it was helpful!

    • @053_eshan9
      @053_eshan9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ia CS50 enough to learn Web development. Is it worth it? Or is there any better course available for it?

  • @BasicMike
    @BasicMike 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I totally agree with your experience. I started work-life as a commercial photographer, quit and jumped into trucking (needed more money), quit, and attended computer tech school where I was taught JCL, COBOL, ALC, RPG (mainframe stuff, a really long time ago). My first job was at a company that built industrial radios and communications equipment. I had to learn CP/M, FORTRAN and Z80 assembly language to work on the project. On my first day they dropped off a desktop computer, and a few books on my desk and told me I had four weeks to learn how to use it. In short, what you learn, may not be the knowledge to help you earn. Now that I’m retired, I’m hoping to freelance as a front-end dev and copywriter. My research over the last month shows that the two dovetail. Some folks aren’t just looking for dazzling content, they want you to add the style and animation too. I guess I could do that with Figma prototypes, but I would love to simply package the HTML, CSS, and JS into a zip file as a deliverable.

  • @renragged
    @renragged ปีที่แล้ว +5

    That's awesome you got a job at Adobe. Each time I drive by their building in Salt Lake City I think it would be dope to work there.

  • @ClintZold
    @ClintZold 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Just starting on this path. I used to code when I was young, hack the highschool network etc... haha Went on to start my own tile business but at 34 my body is already starting to feel it. Hard to take a cut in pay, so I've continued doing it... Then I discovered you could get hired as a self taught dev and the pay is generally comparable. So excited. I love the grind - both mental and physical - but my body will be happy to rest. Thanks for the vid.

    • @TheDbradley1
      @TheDbradley1 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I have been a handyman & landscaper for the past 14 years. I am 40 years old and I am looking at making a career change due to the physical nature of my work. I am sick and tired of my line of work as it has given me a few injuries over the years. Is it still possible for me to study this course and consider a career change? I have always been interested in Information Technology specifically cybersecurity and networking. Have you already started the transition over to working in IT ? What are you currently studying? I don't know where to start yet. I was thinking of going to community college but I feel I am too old now.

  • @oliverstott6570
    @oliverstott6570 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Love this video, great advice, brilliant editing and this advice is useful for experienced devs too.
    I'm a web developer of 4-5 years in the UK, focussed on WordPress, PHP, JS and I'm learning react, but I would love to see a video that's focussed on intermediate or mid level devs who have already got their foot in the door, and how they can stay ahead of the curve. One thing I've found is that moving from startup culture to enterprise level companies is a huge leap especially with waterfall / agile based companies. In startups you have far more freedom I find where as in larger companies there are clear cut standards which is both good and infuriating especially if you want to implement new tech as there's usually a huge process rolling it out and training people.
    What advice would you give for experienced devs who have fallen behind on self improvement and dedicating time to personal projects to master their craft?
    Keep the content coming!

  • @Sashaplaysmusic87
    @Sashaplaysmusic87 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I’ve been a trucker for 10 years and really excited to get into coding. Also got back into music recently and want to be able to work from home. Taking my first baby step.

  • @cxa011500
    @cxa011500 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Very good overview. I learned HTML, CSS and Javascript years ago, but I couldn't figure out how to turn it into a career. I wish I had seen a video like this back then.

  • @MartyMcFly__25
    @MartyMcFly__25 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Been a chef for 8 years. Im 28 now and tired of the industry and the hours on my feet and never seeing my family. With shit pay and benefits.
    I actually coded in high school and was really good just dropped it and never went back. Wish someone would’ve pointed me in the right direction. I’m seriously looking into this career change.

  • @JC-xy2ov
    @JC-xy2ov ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I've been a full-stack engineer for the last 16 months with my first job out of college. It really hit home for me when you talked about the leaky bucket of "best practices" because I am in that situation right now. I was just throw into the fire with no professional experience, which I enjoyed at first to learn. Now, being on a larger scale project with no mentor or previous mentor, I sometimes find myself being extremely lost and feeling like an imposter. WHAT DO I DO?

    • @pictzone
      @pictzone ปีที่แล้ว +4

      You pray

    • @elizaleke8373
      @elizaleke8373 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Google it

    • @ExpatTraderFX
      @ExpatTraderFX ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You hit me up and tell them to hire me so we can tackle the issues together 😂

  • @H3_remix
    @H3_remix 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Went to college once, failed out. Went back 3 years later for CS degree and graduated with a 3.8. Don’t love the job I landed but love the courage it gave to start my journey of game development. I now know my passion is developing games. Which I thought I was “too dumb” to do four years ago. After I took my first semester and had HTML/CSS and Python I was hooked on coding, but that quickly became boring until I transferred those skills to game development. (My assignments were things like cleaning data, managing API, setting up servers, deploying VM, python and HTML basics. That just got stale for me - as for work it’s just numbers and excel sheets with some python/pandas for data cleaning.

  • @danehague1
    @danehague1 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    From my experience of being a full stack dev I worked 80% backend and 20% frontend. The frontend would usually be simple using boostrap etc.

  • @AriWeismanchester
    @AriWeismanchester 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Coming from no real career at 28 to coding. Got a job in IT in the meantime.
    Started JS and am picking it up pretty quick but shifting into CSS and HTML.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That's cool. what's your IT job? Do you have software engineers at your company that you can ask questions and maybe get them to let you contribute a little to start getting experience?

    • @AriWeismanchester
      @AriWeismanchester 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@jamescross I start the IT job in December. In the interview I was open about my plans to work towards a dev job and they told me I'd have access to developers and encouraged me to reach out. It's for DXC Technologies so a massive company, whether or not they help me I'll be self teaching.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      that's awesome! congrats! sounds like a great chance to break in.

  • @josephp1263
    @josephp1263 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I love how devsmak is giving concrete ways to become successful in this field. What got me hooked is that he stated that hard work is needed. Probably the best advise is to know what you want and you need to do it relentlessly.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      thanks for the feedback Joseph!

  • @RexalityGaming
    @RexalityGaming 2 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    Bro, I'm litterally the same EXACT story as you said in beginning of this vid. You have no idea how much this just brought me hope and motivation. I'm 25, and all i've ever worked in my entire life is construction labor, and or warehouse/factory work. I only have G.E.D as far as my education and so I'm very very limited as far as being able to get opportunities to gain some experience in tech related jobs due to not having any professional experience I'm able to list on my resume.
    Technology has always been a passionate hobby of mine for as long as I can remember. Being a little kid, of course I would play some video games and what not, but also I found joy in the actual concept of computers and just what technology is to the core of what it is. My older brother and I would build PC's together when I was little and things like this always brought me much joy. I just wish I would've made the decision to integrate my passion for computer science into a career path earlier on, as well as maybe doing a bit better in school so I could've had a better education to open more doors for career paths.
    I made the decision to do this career change roughly 6 months ago, and trying to do this all self-taught. It can definitely be extremely challenging. I'm just trying to do the best I can so I can get any opportunity that is offered to me quite honestly. I'm a humble, realistic person who isn't afraid to work hard and get their hands dirty. I'd be more than content with accepting a job offer that starts me off at a low level position with not so great pay, SO LONG there is opportunity for growth. My dream roles are all computer science roles such as SWE, programming, cyber security, machine learning, web dev, etc.
    I've struggled because I always hesitate on deciding if I'm taking the correct path as far as my learning goes. I don't have anyone helping me and it's been rough. So this video is a great help and I truly appreciate it. I've been becoming quite discouraged as of very lately to be honest, so this video was just what I needed as a pick-me-up and a reminder to show me that I can do this. Hearing someone that was just like me, a construction worker wanting a better life, a better career for better pay, and they actually made it. That's what I needed right now to keep me going! Thanks james!

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thanks for sharing your story Rex! And thanks for the feedback! Best wishes.

  • @akzmedia92
    @akzmedia92 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I am in my 5th month of learning to code! As I go through the course, I always have questions in the back of my mind, such as how will I get a job and what will the interview be like. Sometimes I feel like I don't even know what I'm doing, and there are moments when I want to give up. However, my current job is motivating me to continue, and I'm excited to pursue a career as a software developer.😊

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว

      best wishes!

    • @dudefrom
      @dudefrom ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Can you recommend best free course for self learning? Am looking for free resources to learn from.

  • @bjfrmdalow927
    @bjfrmdalow927 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I recently got out the army last year I took a course for wordpress development and ended up landing a software developer apprenticeship with less than 6 months of coding knowledge I have the basics of Javascript but I need more practice by next year i plan to be extremely more proficient than i am now

  • @a.c.ramirez7762
    @a.c.ramirez7762 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Hey James! This is really a great talk! Even as a frontend developer with 5+ years professional experience, I find this content very helpful and inspiring - not only for junior devs, but for all levels and transitioning as well. The web development field is constantly evolving, and besides the necessity of staying up to date with market trends, we also need to stand out as real people with creative and soft skills. You rocked it at the end with the "Breaking Resume Rules" chapter!
    Much appreciation:)

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @nickmurdaugh9856
    @nickmurdaugh9856 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    10 years in the infantry. 2 years in armed security.
    I've been programming for about 9 months. I've learned a lot, and I'm pretty great at solving problems. But the job hunt is grueling.
    It's also difficult trying to balance familiarizing myself with the variety of technologies in use with mastering a couple things. Ha, I constantly feel like I'm being jerked around.

  • @Plague_Rat778
    @Plague_Rat778 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Ill be 24 in just about 3 months. Ive tried going to college about 4 times now and it just never works for me. I feel stuck and like im not doing anythign with my life, so I decided to go the self-taught route of coding. I hope to eventually land a (hooefully) well paying job, so that i can care for my family, hopefully give back to my grandparents

  • @chawguzman
    @chawguzman ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello been construction worker for 10 years metal fabricator and mechanical fabricator for 6 years and commercial electrician in Northern California. Started my coding journey a week ago and couldn’t be more excited as I’ve always been very tech savvy pretty efficient in a few Adobe programs

  • @rskugo
    @rskugo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am currently starting on Odin Projectl like you mentioned in the other video. Been watching your vids since early last year, and finally gain the confidence to give it a try without feeling I am all over the place. Your insight has been amazing and really appreicate you my dude.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Very cool!

    • @gabrielwelch6483
      @gabrielwelch6483 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Did you finish Odin project? I’m looking at starting that one

  • @stanislavpogorsky7499
    @stanislavpogorsky7499 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello, James! I rarely comment on videos, but couldn't resist this time. I watched a lot of videos in this genre and wasn't sure that I'll watch yours (because I watched too many already and this one is 1.5 hours long), but just couldn't click away. Very informative, honest and greatly composed thoughts. Appreciate it a lot!
    You actually reinforced my confidence that I have the right mindset on my way to getting hired for the first job in IT - for that, I'm grateful. But also your point about 'don't rush to become full stack developer" truly resonated with me, since I actually tried to do just that. Now I think that I'll position myself as a Frontend Dev (at least for now) and will talk about my knowledge about some Backend tech as "bonus skills" rather than core ones.
    Thank you!

  • @ROMOROMO-ub7tm
    @ROMOROMO-ub7tm ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I'm listening. X construction worker, due to my back , now I'm listening to you , I'm a single father and I have to do this . I'm not scared.

    • @TheDbradley1
      @TheDbradley1 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I am in a similar position to you. Desperate to get out of my back breaking job. What are you thinking of studying in IT? Networking or Coding?

  • @annekoster2379
    @annekoster2379 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You're a good PEP talker, Love it. Tanks for that. I'm starting DEV @ 50Y

  • @fabiangottesmann5648
    @fabiangottesmann5648 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I was attending in a Bootcamp, learned for three month and was super lucky to get the job i wanted after just one application. But as i said... i was just lucky. I'm a mediocre dev and some of my fellow bootcamp students are wayyyyy better than i am and many are still looking for a job after like 2years :/ If you guys want to take this path, be sure what you´re doing and commit yourself 100%.

    • @kaycampbell364
      @kaycampbell364 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      What Bootcamp did you attend

    • @fabiangottesmann5648
      @fabiangottesmann5648 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kaycampbell364 just look up "neuefische - coding bootcamp". They are located in Hamburg, Köln, Frankfurt, Munich (Germany) and they offer german and english courses. (Full remote ofc)

  • @steviegillen82
    @steviegillen82 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    On a journey to learn front end development. Enjoying the JavaScript language, but still a bit to go before becoming 'comfortable' with the language. React is definitely on radar to tackle and learn. Thank you for the video and advice!!

    • @shire-lee
      @shire-lee 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @James cross±𝟭𝟰𝟳𝟵𝟯𝟭𝟳𝟰𝟬𝟲𝟭 Man, from what i hear from my dev friends front end is absolutely dying and is being all automated. It's a bummer since i just started learning all of this like a month ago. Not even sure where to go from here at this point....

  • @primalgoddess3805
    @primalgoddess3805 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm a mom of 3 teaching myself how to code so I can make my vision of creating a video game started. First step is to create a fully functional and fun virtual pet site game where those who are waiting for the game I want to build in Unreal Engine 5 can have something to pass plenty of time each day. I literally just started to teach myself how to code on Friday, and already have a nearly functional welcome page for the site made.

  • @Dorien837
    @Dorien837 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Construction worker for 13 years. I’m 31 years old…Always been into tech & computer science. I’m 3 weeks into my coding journey as far as learning goes. I’m excited but I know this will be hard with no college experience. I do have dev friends in the industry that are helping me everyday. Currently doing about 3-5 hours a night of hard core studying. My dev friends swear I can land a job in under a year but I think it will take longer

    • @jakefeen5707
      @jakefeen5707 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I'm in a similar situation, I'm 27 and been working in residential construction for almost 2 years, and I've really grown to loathe the work-yourself-to-death culture that permeates the industry. I'm on week 2 of learning Python, but after seeing this video I think I'll enjoy front end development much more. Hope all goes well

    • @abdulmuqtadir8898
      @abdulmuqtadir8898 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      please code as soon as possible after waking up not before going to bed. do not realise this late

    • @AtefHelmy23
      @AtefHelmy23 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@abdulmuqtadir8898 I second this

    • @paulomtts
      @paulomtts ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You will do it before a year is up. Trust me.

    • @Dorien837
      @Dorien837 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@paulomtts I hope your right! Lol I would love to get out of this back breaking labor

  • @girth8613
    @girth8613 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Current CS student. I served in the Marine Corps for 4 years and did just under a year in construction. I am in love with CS and I am not looking back on my previous occupations. CS / software / web dev or related fields is the escape from jobs that kill you physically . This is the way.

  • @collegenm
    @collegenm 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Also for deployment tools, as far as hosting, Vercel is a good one too in my opinion. It's simple.

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      thanks for sharing

  • @mostly_water
    @mostly_water ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just gotta say man thank you for not being weird about discussing your salary. It’s a stupid “rule” that we follow solely for our employers’ benefit. We all need to talk about our earnings openly and more often

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      YW. I struggled to find my value early on because I had no clue what others were making. Glad it helped.

    • @mostly_water
      @mostly_water ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jamescross I do have a more focused question, if that’s fine. I’m coming from a film production background, and I’m trying to see where that and programming might intersect so I can leverage that experience. Do you have a direction to recommend, given that you work at Adobe?

    • @jamescross
      @jamescross  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      To be clear, I work on analytics software not creative cloud stuff. That said, here are my initial thoughts. 1) There are a ton of different tools and plugins out there for video. Someone is writing the the code for those. Having an understanding of the industry and process provides domain knowledge expertise which can be really valuable when related to the software since you can provide insights into design decisions and can contribute interesting ideas for features.
      2) Good film production is good storytelling, which a lot of folks ignore, but the narrative you convey around your personal story and the value you bring is important. You could leverage that skill for career growth. How you say things really matters. Not to mention applying that skill to things like product demo videos and stuff. I don't go overboard with that, but my demos stand out from others because I try to convey a narrative and add a few tweaks for pacing. :) This has gotten compliments from directors and upper management. Attention is good.
      3) I would leverage your current skills to maybe consider starting a youtube channel and documenting your journey. That will do two things, allow you to stand out more than most other new programmers who have to tell rather than show. The second benefit is that if the channel takes off, you could have a nice side income. Who knows, maybe you leverage that audience and your skills to build your own version of skillshare or something like that.

    • @mostly_water
      @mostly_water ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jamescross wow, I did not expect a reply that thoughtful and constructive. Thank you so much for taking the time! Much appreciated!!

  • @Sheenovastee
    @Sheenovastee ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Really glad I found this video. I just started Udemy's Zero to Mastery: Web Development, and I have to say, i already love what I'm learning. I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I do but it's really become a joy to learn. I'm trying to dedicate at least 3 hours a day learning but I'm going to up it to at least 4 hours now after watching your video. I'm currently an Arabic interpreter, which is cool but it's not challenging and there isn't much room to increase your pay. Wish me luck!!

  • @destrolock4329
    @destrolock4329 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    As someone who went the system admin route, html, css and js are the only things i really like to use and experiment with. Java was an absolute nightmare to go through at school and will never be visited again. The mentioned 3 are used in selfmade websites since i have the knowledge about how to host them, this now leads me into thinking about expanding my horizon and portfolio with database integration as the sql syntax is actually likeable. Right now just as a hobby and contrast to managing systems at work.

  • @karimheras9462
    @karimheras9462 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Med school Grad. Havent secured residency so degree pretty much not that useful. So Ive been looking for other oppertunties and tech seems to be it. Enjoying the journey. Thanks for all the informational videos.