MINI PROJECTS & Growth 🌷
August has been a month of settling into a new normal. Being in an educational space like Ada is constantly challenging, and, in turn, provides a clear vision of the next step to meet the next goal. Graduating has opened up a world of opportunity, but also one of uncertainty. Where do I go next? What do I create? How do I continue my learning journey?
Of course, there's no one true answer, other than to keep moving forward. So, between applying to jobs and trying to sleuth out new opportunities, here are a few of the things I've done to keep coding.
MACHINE LEARNING FOR BEGINNERS
A few weeks ago, Ada hosted a virtual workshop led by Sage Elliott, an AI engineer with Why Labs. It was a great continuation from what I saw within Seagen in regards to the potential of data and the programs that can massively increase insights and analysis for a company.
Admittedly, I sometimes struggle within the AI hype era we're living in. I'm a big believer in visibility and accountability, and, when not done responsibly, there are times when overconfidence in AI can overwhelm an understanding of how, exactly, a system reaches and produces a certain response.
But, of course, there are plenty of smart engineers who are driving responsible, secure, data-driven AI products, and it's exciting to learn from an industry professional, have the process demystified a bit, and see what's possible.
An Introduction to New backend Tech
At the beginning of the year, freeCodeCamp published a video tutorial on creating a simplified Letterboxd clone. Mostly, I was interested in gaining some exposure to Java and MongoDB, which are both, obviously, very popular tools within the tech world.
Naturally, Java predates JavaScript. While the latter of the two (and the one I'm more familiar with) is primarily used for web development, Java is platform-independent and can be used in the development of desktop applications, mobile apps, games, servers, machines, and, yes, also web backends.
MongoDB is my first exposure to NoSQL (that is, not only SQL) databases, which offer schema-free, flexible data storage. Admittedly, I'm not sure the tutorial truly tested the limits of what a NoSQL database can do, but, all in all, I feel like this experience made exploring new technologies less intimidating.
I've been told (several times, in fact) that it is better to build familiarity with the languages and technologies you already know rather than to try and become some sort of Jack of all trades. But it can be hard to follow that advice when there are interesting job postings that call for expertise in Language X, or when you hear Framework Y is perfect for doing Cool Thing Z. I have zero doubts that Java and MongoDB are powerful tools created and used by smart people building amazing things, but exploring this curiosity has also taught me that I absolutely could add these to my toolbox further down the road. While the tech I'm most familiar with already may not be the most optimal option in every scenario, they can get me far enough, which brings me to:
It's Me, Hi
It only uses HTML/CSS, and it's not going to be winning any awards, but being hit by inspiration then being able to go build something reminded me of the freedom outside of tutorials. I am, of course, grateful for all the accessible resources out there and fully intend to keep using them. That said, learning by doing — doing something that excites you — can also set you down a path of engaged exploration, as well.
Job hunting can be a hard, demoralizing process that drains you of your confidence, no matter how many times you've been assured of your abilities or hear about the state of the economy. While I can't say I'm above that concern, I am feeling more grounded in my abilities and experience, and I'm hoping that will serve me better in the long run as a settle into a potential marathon (although, hey, if anyone wants to hire me now, I'm all ears!)
What's Next?
I'm going on vacation!
The timing doesn't feel great (What about the applications I just sent out? What if I miss The Perfect Opening?), but, honestly, it almost never does, and, after a year of sprinting, I need a moment to exhale, reflect, and spend time with loved ones. With rest comes clarity, and, combined with all I've learned this month, I'm excited to continue on to the next leg of this journey. In a week.
(Okay, I'll probably still be checking my email. But mostly relaxing!)
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