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Can you be a self-taught software developer have a high-paying job and didn't go to college?

In the 11th grade and thinking about being a software developer but I don't want to go to college

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Atul’s Answer

Absolutely, it's entirely possible to teach yourself computer programming languages. However, it might be tricky for others to understand your areas of expertise. Have you considered showcasing your skills by contributing to platforms like the Free Software Foundation? This could help you stand out and demonstrate your unique abilities.

In today's corporate world, especially in America, having a degree is often a prerequisite when applying for a software engineering position. But, a degree alone doesn't guarantee a job. Most employers will ask you to take a test, which can last up to 3 hours, before they even consider you for an interview.

It's important to remember that working in a team-oriented environment requires more than just technical skills. You also need to have good social and communication skills, as well as strong writing abilities. Plus, you should have a deep understanding of at least one computer language. If you're fresh out of high school and lacking these skills, finding a job can be quite challenging.

Moreover, it's worth noting that individuals without a college degree often earn less than their degree-holding counterparts. This is just the way things are.

You're aiming for a career in the high-tech industry, not a trade like plumbing, electrical work, or welding, where a vocational school or associate degree might be enough. While these trades are respectable and can pay well, the software industry is a completely different playing field.
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Rihem’s Answer

Yes, it's entirely possible to carve a successful career as a self-taught software developer without a college degree. The tech industry places a premium on skills, practical experience, and problem-solving abilities, often valuing them more than formal education. Here are some key factors contributing to this possibility:

Accessible Learning Resources: The digital age has made learning more accessible than ever. Online platforms like Codecademy, Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer a wealth of free or affordable courses that cover the fundamentals of programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and software development concepts.

Building a Portfolio: Self-taught developers often create a portfolio to showcase their skills. This can include personal projects, such as web applications, mobile apps, or contributions to open-source projects. A strong portfolio serves as a testament to your abilities and creativity.

Community Engagement: Engaging with the tech community, both online and offline, is vital. Participate in forums like Stack Overflow, attend local meetups, and contribute to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub. Networking and mentorship opportunities can lead to job prospects.

Online Courses and Certifications: Enroll in online courses and certification programs available on platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, Pluralsight, and more. Earning certifications can further validate your expertise and dedication to prospective employers.

Real-World Experience: Seek internships or freelance opportunities to gain real-world experience. This provides insights into professional software development practices and can lead to full-time job offers. Smaller companies and startups often value practical experience over formal degrees.

Open Source Contributions: Actively contributing to open-source projects is a great way to showcase your collaborative abilities and coding skills. It not only benefits the community but also captures the attention of potential employers.

Staying Current: The tech industry evolves rapidly. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Regularly reading tech blogs, attending conferences, and participating in webinars and online courses will keep your skills current.

Personal Branding: Building a personal brand through platforms like LinkedIn and maintaining a personal website or blog can boost your visibility in the industry. Sharing your knowledge, experiences, and projects can set you apart.

Job Applications: Begin applying for software developer positions. Tailor your resumes and cover letters to highlight your accomplishments and skills. Don't hesitate to explore opportunities with smaller companies and startups that often value practical experience.

Interview Preparation: Prepare for interviews by studying data structures, algorithms, and coding questions. Be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge.

In conclusion, the software development field offers ample opportunities for self-taught individuals to excel. To maximize your chances of success, continually enhance your skills and acquire multiple certifications to illustrate your proficiency to potential employers. Persistence, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning will be your guiding principles on this remarkable journey.
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Ige’s Answer

Definitely achievable! Keep in mind though, that every company is different. A degree isn't always the most important aspect when going into some careers, however, attaining a certificate or experience is always good to add to a resume/portfolio. In some cases, companies focus more on your experience and skillset rather than if you have a degree. Various people graduate with a degree in one major, but later decide to have a career in something they did not graduate in. You can learn about software development in a plethora of ways. Free resources like Youtube and Coursera can help greatly with this. Even observing other individuals' projects online may help. Figure out which area of software development you see yourself doing as a career. What company do you see yourself working at? You can also start in an entry -level job and work your way up. Begin to research and ask yourself these questions. You can also begin networking and building connections with others in software development through apps such as LinkedIn or even Discord.

Any type of class project, course, etc can be added as a form of experience in your portfolio.
If you have no experience, don't stress! Start now. Make up your own fun projects and create things and begin building your portfolio and resume. GitHub, is always a great resource.

Remember! Even if a company asks for a certain amount of experience, degree, etc (ex. 2 years in x,y,z) still apply to the job. You never know what can happen.

"You miss a 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky

Ige recommends the following next steps:

(If you have not done this already) Create a LinkedIn account, a Discord account, and an account in any other app you may want to use.
Create a resume and portfolio. If you do not have either, you can create one for free on Canvas. (They have various templates) Begin to add information to your portfolio and or resume. If you do not have any form of experience, you should still create these for when you do begin to create things to add.
Begin to connect with others on each app. Ask questions. Take your time and don't rush.
Begin to create projects. Look up ideas on YouTube, Google, etc. Do projects that spark your interest.
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Jerome’s Answer

Yep. I did it. Been in the technology field for over 40 years without a degree, and my salary's quite satisfactory.

The downside is that you will spend a LOT of time and effort learning your craft the hard way. You will need to invest in technology so you can teach yourself how it all works, you'll need the ability to understand what's important and what you can ignore, you will have to learn to spot industry trends and focus your learning in those directions, and you will need a support network of other professionals who can not only help you stay on track but vouch for your abilities (provide references).

All of the tips the other professionals are spot-on, but I'd say this: If you can go the college route, do so. It's a whole lot easier and your career will advance more quickly. "College" can mean many things; it's not "just sit-in-a-class-and-try-not-to-fall-asleep" anymore. There are online curricula, work-study, and other programs that may suit your needs (if you have a disability, including reading/writing problems or ADD/ADHD, there are specialized colleges for you as well). Lots of financial aid's available too.

But if you can't go, then do not be afraid to plow ahead. It can be done.

Best of luck!!!
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Rajesh’s Answer

Absolutely! Several companies have made it clear that they're open to considering certifications from online platforms like Code Academy or Udemy, even if you don't have a college degree. It's entirely possible to gain valuable work experience from companies that don't require a degree. Startups and organizations with limited funding can be excellent places to start. This hands-on experience can be a stepping-stone to opportunities in other companies, as many value practical experience over formal education.

Don't forget, there are other resources at your disposal to help you learn and grow. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and YouTube videos are fantastic self-teaching tools. So keep going, and remember, your determination and passion can open doors you never thought possible!
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Alen’s Answer

It is definitely possible! The path will be a bit harder due to having to teach yourself fundamentals and have a strong understanding of it, but it is doable! Plenty of companies (including the likes of Google & Meta) do not require a degree, but you need to be able to demonstrate that you understand and know the work.
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Diksha’s Answer

Definitely! Individuals from diverse backgrounds often secure positions at major technology firms, including those within the prestigious FAANG.
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Dimple’s Answer

Definitely possible but the road to your destination will be difficult. Access to jobs and an audience is much easier when you have certifications or a college degree. You will have to showcase your abilities by making regular contributions to GitHub and other public forums. If college is not for you, you can explore the resources that are freely available on Youtube, coursera and other similar sites. Find which area of software development excites you and focus on getting some certifications and find audiences/groups where u can showcase your expertise. Take part in hackathons and other online competitions to showcase your skills.

Though many companies do not require you to have a college degree, getting your foot in the door will be easier with some kind of qualification. Create a good linkedIn profile and to get noticed.
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Grant’s Answer

It's certainly possible! Many successful software developers have followed this path. However, there are some important factors to consider, such as drive to develop a strong and diversified skill set, build out a portfolio of personal projects or open-source contributions, networking with others in the tech industry, getting certifications, picking up practical experience from interning or freelance work, etc. It's important to note that some companies will still require a college degree as a prerequisite which can come in handy when being compared to other software developers vying for the same job.
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Joe’s Answer

You definitely can. There are tons of free or low cost resources online that you can learn to code on. Udemy and Code Academy are 2 examples of resources you can use. I personally know a number of people that have been successful in Software Dev that don't have a college degree!
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Hunter’s Answer

Absolutely, coding boot camps are a viable option. They offer a fast-track to learning software coding/development without the long-term commitment of a 4-year university. I'm aware of several individuals who have successfully used this path to land jobs at top-tier companies like Google and Facebook, kickstarting their careers at an early age.
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Robert’s Answer

Myya,

There's an abundance of insightful responses here already. As a self-taught programmer with nearly four decades of experience, I'm still on a learning journey. This is one of the most exciting aspects of this field - it's a never-ending adventure of discovery and growth. I did earn a degree, and it has been a valuable asset to me.

Firstly, it's essential to distinguish between Programming and Computer Science. Programming is a skill you can acquire through practice and trial-and-error. I've done it, and I continue to do so. Computer Science, on the other hand, delves much deeper into the workings of computers, their data storage methods, and the issues that can arise from this. It's a more fundamental understanding that is best gained in a formal setting. While I may not use this knowledge daily, it equips me to navigate the frequent, significant shifts and challenges in the industry. It has also enabled me to solve complex problems for clients that would have been hard to comprehend without this foundational understanding.

Secondly, a degree opens doors to opportunities such as working abroad or in government or educational institutions. It doesn't have to be from an elite private institution - your local state university can offer these opportunities too.

Thirdly, being in a challenging program exposes you to people much smarter than you, and this will fuel your growth! You'll broaden your capabilities, acquire skills in areas you didn't even know existed, and be introduced to fresh ideas and technologies. You'll meet fascinating people and become a more proficient programmer. More importantly, you'll discover other areas you might want to delve into.

Technology is a rewarding career path, not just a job. To truly unlock your potential, consider investing in yourself by obtaining a degree. It's a stepping stone to future success and a fulfilling, long-term career.

Robert recommends the following next steps:

Look at degree programs in your home town
Talk to family or friends in the industry
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James’s Answer

Hello Myya, I have had a successful career in Information Technology over 28 years with only high school grades as my academic base. For me a degree demonstrates ones ability to address complex situations and convey / communicate a point of view well backed by research. However, this does not in my view make you 'qualified' in a given industry, possibly say medical, but for IT its all about your capacity to learn, apply yourself, communicate well, listen and be organised and with a point of view.

You can teach yourself any number of technical disciplines such as popular programming languages, concepts such as cloud cloud or maybe more complex engineering approaches such as Data Science. If you are interested in being a developer its a great start, you can teach yourself and practice creating routines or programs e.g. build a simple application and deploy it into the cloud in a free account e.g.

https://azure.microsoft.com/en-gb/free/search/?ef_id=_k_3e46e95847d41f9b82e78c694ca740f1_k_&OCID=AIDcmm3bvqzxp1_SEM__k_3e46e95847d41f9b82e78c694ca740f1_k_&msclkid=3e46e95847d41f9b82e78c694ca740f1

That way you can show a prospective employer your ability to define a subject, code it, debug it, deploy it, operate it, and maintain it. It could be as simple as an online planner or a custom blog site, I am sure there are many forums where you can upload open-source coding.

I am now an Industry Architect for Microsoft, I have a long career in IT starting off in infrastructure and networking and moved through various disciplines in IT Architecture to build up my knowledge of Financial Services. I have worked for large blue-chip organisations and consultancies as well as within industry (banks, insurers) within leading IT roles. I have also managed people along the way, and this is great as it teaches you about how to work with people and manage complex human situations.

I consider my financial rewards very adequate and there is still room to grow my career and value if I choose to do so!

I hope this helps, feel free to ask more questions.

James recommends the following next steps:

Think about what you are passionate about and what you love doing - this is step one
Step into the brave new world, produce something, showcase it and shout about it on social media. Develop followings and a point of view
Find a local or national recruiter, build a simple CV (there are many examples online), use Linked In to promote your intent
Go for interviews, do not be afraid of rejection if that happens, as this is where you learn how to be you and what employers are looking for
Take a role when offered that allows you to capitalise on your core passions, get paid and then drive your passion to lead your career
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Sumabala’s Answer

In the dynamic world we live in today, it's a yes! Take inspiration from trailblazers like Steve Jobs or Vitalik Buterin. But remember to be able to clearly articulate what you offer.

Discover what fuels your fire and charge forward. If answers don't come easily, don't be disheartened. Keep searching. There may be stumbling blocks along the way, but remember, they are stepping stones to valuable life lessons. Continue your relentless pursuit.

In this era, companies are increasingly open to welcoming individuals who may not have followed the traditional path of education. They value skills, passion, and drive over formal qualifications.

Check out these articles about Elon Musk's hiring practices and IBM's apprenticeship program for some inspiring examples:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-7971211/Elon-Musk-doesnt-care-employees-graduated-high-school-theyre-code-AI-experts.html and https://www.ibm.com/impact/feature/apprenticeship. They are proof that your unique journey can lead to success.

Education gives you a recognized degree that speaks for you. Find other ways your work can speak for you.

If you are in IT, for example, earn badges and post them on Linked In. Keep your profile current. Join meetups, conferences etc. and network, create connections. Create a github page and post your code there.

This is just an IT example, but most of these apply to all professions.

Get involved in and be aware on new trends in the field of your choice. Do not be shy to speak up.

You need to shine brighter than others. Be visible, have the knowledge to back it up and be polite and approachable.

Good Luck!
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Victor’s Answer

Definitely! Many successful software developers have proven that you can have a high-paying job without a traditional college education. Here are some key points to consider:

Passion and Dedication: Passion for coding and a strong work ethic are critical. If you're committed to learning and improving your skills, you can achieve success in the software development field.

Learning Resources: The internet is a treasure trove of resources for self-taught developers. There are countless online courses, tutorials, and documentation available for free or at a fraction of the cost of a college education. Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Codecademy offer a wide range of programming courses.

Coding Bootcamps: Coding bootcamps have gained popularity in recent years. They provide focused, intensive training in a relatively short period. While many are paid, they are often more affordable and faster than a traditional degree.

Projects and Portfolio: Building a portfolio of personal projects can demonstrate your skills and commitment to potential employers. Open-source contributions, personal websites, and apps showcase your ability to create real-world applications.

Networking: Connect with other developers, join online communities, and attend local meetups. Networking can lead to job opportunities and collaborations.

Continuous Learning: The software industry is always evolving. Be prepared to continue learning throughout your career. Staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends is crucial.

Internships and Entry-Level Positions: Starting with internships or entry-level positions can provide valuable experience and open doors to higher-paying jobs as you gain expertise.

Certifications: Some developers opt for certifications to validate their skills. While not a strict requirement, certifications can enhance your credibility.

Soft Skills: Don't underestimate the importance of soft skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. These are often as crucial as technical skills in the workplace.

Research Job Market: Research the job market in your area or the area where you want to work. Some regions may have a higher demand for self-taught developers.

Remember that while a college degree is a common path, it's not the only path to a successful career in software development. Your dedication, hard work, and a continuously evolving skill set are what truly matter. With the right mindset and resources, you can certainly achieve a high-paying job in the software development field without a college degree. It's about continuously learning, building a portfolio, networking, and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends that can set you on the path to a successful software development career.
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Michael’s Answer

I'm coming from the POV of someone who went to college but didn't major in CS. I think from a skills perspective, you can absolutely do this. But it's important to remember that in the job application process, there are often gatekeepers before any technical decision maker gets to your resume or tests your skills, and you'll always have that additional hurdle to get over. This will vary from company to company, of course, and over the course of your career, your education credentials will become less and less important to your prospects.

Smaller and more agile companies will be more likely to hire folks without formal degrees, so if you decide to go the self-taught route, you could start by focusing on those.
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Uma’s Answer

Indeed, you can achieve it, but it's a challenging journey compared to the conventional career route where you possess an official education or degree. Make sure to prepare yourself for the hurdles you might face.
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Barry’s Answer

Absolutely, I there are plenty of people who either didn't go to college or did and got a degree in a different field and ended up with very successful careers.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hey there, Myya!

Absolutely, you can totally become a self-taught software developer and still land a well-paying job, even without a college degree. While college does offer a structured learning environment and a wealth of resources, it's not the only way to make it big in the software development world. Many successful developers have reached their heights through self-learning, hands-on experience, and a commitment to never stop learning.

If you're keen on becoming a self-taught software developer, here's a friendly guide to help you on your journey:

1. Set your sights: Identify the areas of software development that pique your interest. It could be anything from web development, mobile app development, to data science. This will help you channel your learning efforts effectively.

2. Pick your languages: Start with one or two programming languages. Python, JavaScript, Java, or C++ are popular choices, each with its own unique strengths and uses.

3. Use online resources: The internet is a treasure trove of resources for learning programming. Websites, tutorials, forums, and online courses abound, offering in-depth lessons on various programming languages and concepts.

4. Get your hands dirty: The secret to mastering software development is practice. Begin with small projects or coding challenges to put what you've learned to test. As you get better, take on more complex projects.

5. Show off your work: Build a portfolio showcasing your projects. This can be anything from websites, mobile apps, or any other software you've developed. It's a great way to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.

6. Contribute to open-source projects: Platforms like GitHub are perfect for this. Contributing not only lets you work with other developers, but also helps you gain visibility and recognition in the software development community.

7. Network: Attend local meetups, conferences, or join online communities related to software development. Networking can open doors to learning from seasoned professionals, gaining insights into industry trends, and potentially finding job opportunities.

8. Keep learning: The software development field is always changing, so staying updated with the latest technologies and trends is crucial. Learning new programming languages, frameworks, and tools will keep you competitive in the job market.

While some employers might prefer a college degree, many companies in the software development industry value practical skills and experience more than formal education. By building a robust portfolio, gaining practical experience through personal projects or internships, and continually honing your skills, you can increase your chances of securing a well-paying job as a self-taught software developer.

Remember, while self-learning is a viable route to success in the software development industry, it demands discipline, dedication, and persistence. It might take a bit longer to make your mark without a formal degree, but with the right attitude and a commitment to continuous learning, you can definitely reach your goals.

Here are the top 5 authoritative references or domain names used:

1. Stack Overflow - stackoverflow.com
2. GitHub - github.com
3. FreeCodeCamp - freecodecamp.org
4. Codecademy - codecademy.com
5. Coursera - coursera.org
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Rihem’s Answer

Absolutely, you can forge a successful career as a self-taught software developer without a college degree and still command a high-paying job. In fact, the tech industry often values skills and experience more than formal education. Here's a unique roadmap to guide your journey:

Learn Relentlessly: Dive into coding with fervor. Online platforms, tutorials, and open source projects are your classrooms. The internet is a treasure trove of knowledge, and your curiosity is your best teacher.

Build an Impressive Portfolio: Create a portfolio of personal projects that showcase your skills and passion. A strong portfolio is your calling card.

Contribute to Open Source: Participate in open source projects to gain experience, collaborate with experienced developers, and demonstrate your commitment to the community.

Online Courses and Bootcamps: Consider taking online courses and coding bootcamps. Many of these are designed to fast-track your learning and provide structured guidance.

Network Actively: Attend tech meetups, conferences, and online forums. Networking can help you learn, find job opportunities, and connect with mentors.

Master Problem-Solving: Develop a reputation as a problem solver. Practice coding challenges and algorithms on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank.

Create a Personal Brand: Build your online presence with a blog, social media, or a personal website to showcase your knowledge and insights.

Freelance and Contract Work: Gain experience through freelance and contract projects. Real-world experience can be as valuable as a formal education.

Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, or CompTIA) to bolster your resume and demonstrate expertise.

Stay Current: The tech industry evolves rapidly. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive.

Soft Skills: Develop strong communication and teamwork skills. Being a good collaborator and communicator is highly valued.

Internship Opportunities: Pursue internships or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience and open doors to job opportunities.

Apply Everywhere: Don't limit your job search to specific companies or locations. Apply widely and be open to remote work options.

Showcase Problem-Solving: In interviews, highlight your ability to solve real-world problems, your projects, and your learning journey. Be confident in your skills.

Negotiation Skills: Learn to negotiate your salary effectively. Research market rates and don't undersell your skills.

Continuous Learning: Commit to lifelong learning. The tech world is dynamic, and staying up-to-date is critical.

Mentorship: Seek mentors and advisors who can provide guidance and help you navigate the industry.

Persistence and Patience: Your journey may have challenges, but perseverance and patience will ultimately lead to success.

While a college degree can be advantageous, the tech industry is known for its meritocracy. Your skills, passion, and dedication can open doors to high-paying job opportunities, making your unique path to becoming a self-taught software developer both achievable and rewarding.
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