There are so many paths in tech that you might not even know exist. There’s Mobile Development, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Data Science—the list goes on.
So, How Do You Choose a Tech Path?
It’s easy to find yourself jumping between different areas and feeling confused. For example, moving from Frontend Development to Mobile Development to Cloud Computing can leave you overwhelmed. This is a common experience, especially when starting out in the tech field. The industry is vast and constantly evolving, making it difficult to settle on just one area.
Feeling lost while choosing a tech path is completely normal. Many people spend a lot of time trying to figure it out, but here are a few tips to help you decide faster:
- Explore Different Areas
How will you know what works for you if you don’t understand how it works? Start by exploring different fields.
Try out beginner-friendly tutorials, watch YouTube videos, or work on small projects in each area. This approach will help you identify what sparks your interest.
- Seek Guidance
Don’t hesitate to reach out to others for advice and support. Finding a mentor or joining tech communities can be incredibly helpful. A community like Google Developers Group (GDG), or even local university tech groups, offers opportunities to connect with people who have been on the tech journey.
Mentors can help you navigate challenges and provide career advice. Their experience might save you from common mistakes or give you clarity about what to expect.
- Continuous Learning
Don’t waste too much time searching for the ‘perfect’ path. Just start something and keep moving. As someone once said:
“Pick one, run with it, and down the line, you can easily transition into another role that you find interesting.”
The tech world is flexible. Skills in one area can be transferable to others. For instance, learning Frontend Development can make it easier to transition into UX/UI Design or Full Stack Development later on.
“What if I choose the wrong path?” Don’t worry! The skills you learn will rarely go to waste.
“How do I know if I’m good at it?” You’ll improve with practice. No one starts as an expert, so give yourself time to grow.
Remember, feeling lost is part of the journey. The confusion you feel now is helping you grow and learn. The important thing is to start, keep moving forward, and remain open to change.
~ Written by Oluwadamilola Soji-Oderinde
