#132 From doing data entry to becoming a developer with Jessica Chan AKA Coder Coder
Jul 12, 2024
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Software engineer Jessica Chan shares her journey from data entry to success in web development. Topics include running a BBS, imposter syndrome, creating tutorials, and transitioning from freelancing to building a brand.
Self-research before seeking help to maximize learning opportunities.
Transition from a photography major to a successful software engineer.
Shift from freelancing to content creation for a full-time career.
Prioritize fundamental coding skills over constantly chasing cutting-edge technologies.
Deep dives
Learning and Growth in the Early Career Phase
In the initial years of her software engineering career, Jessica Chan faced challenges with feelings of possible failure and the pressure to learn quickly. She emphasized self-research before seeking help from colleagues to avoid bothering them with questions. Despite the difficulties, she acknowledged that the learning curve was steep, providing significant growth opportunities.
Transition to Tech and Early Coding Experience
Jessica shared her journey into tech, emphasizing her lack of formal programming education and early interest in computers. Her experience with setting up a BBS as a fun hobby in her youth showcased her early inclination towards technology and building things.
Career Evolution and Freelancing Experience
Over time, Jessica transitioned from a photography major to a software engineer, showcasing her progression from junior to senior web developer roles in an agency. She discussed her shift to freelancing, leveraging her network from past roles for client opportunities as she gradually focused more on content creation and less on freelancing.
Content Creation and Monetization Journey
Jessica detailed her entry into content creation through blogging, YouTube tutorials, and affiliate links. She highlighted the shift in income sources from blogging to YouTube revenue growth, leading her to eventually transition away from freelancing to focus on content creation full-time. She acknowledged the challenges and opportunities in pursuing an independent creator career.
Balancing Freelancing and Content Creation
While navigating freelancing and content creation, Jessica found ways to leverage her network for client opportunities while building her online presence. She shared insights into the evolution of her revenue streams and the pivotal moments that led to her decision to focus on content creation over freelancing.
Learning Programming Languages and Avoiding Dark Patterns
When approaching the task of learning new programming languages or expanding skill sets, it is recommended to start with popular YouTube tutorials and leverage resources like Reddit for real insights from experienced individuals. Maintaining a critical eye for the tone and content of the tutorials is crucial to identify superficial or potentially misleading material. Focus on in-depth resources like those offered by reliable creators such as Kevin Powell, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Misconceptions About Learning to Code and Staying Updated
A common misconception in the coding community is the pressure to constantly stay at the cutting edge of technology. The podcast emphasizes the importance of prioritizing foundational knowledge over chasing the latest trends, especially for beginners. Learning the basics thoroughly proves to be more beneficial in the long run, as newer technologies may not always become mainstream. By focusing on fundamental skills first, individuals can build a solid coding foundation for continued growth and development.
On this week's episode of the podcast, freeCodeCamp founder Quincy Larson interviews Jessica Chan AKA Coder Coder. She's a software engineer has worked in the field for more than a decade. Interestingly, she studied photography in school and never took a programming class.
We talk about:
- How she and her sister ran a dial-in Bulletin Board System (BBS) back in the pre-web days
- How her first year as a dev she "was just living in abject fear of losing my job."
- How she stayed at her first developer agency job for 7 years, and went from imposter syndrome afflicted newbie to getting promoted
- Her philosophy on creating programming tutorials: "You don't have to be on the cutting edge. I don't operate on the cutting edge."
Can you guess what song I'm playing on my bass during the intro? It's from a 1993 rock song.
Also, I want to thank the 9,779 kind people who support our charity each month, and who make this podcast possible. You can join them and support our mission at: https://www.freecodecamp.org/donate
