Why I Got Into Software Engineering.

For the last ten years I worked as a regional salesman selling food products for a large New York based food distributor. My “territory” was made up of all of Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, the Bronx, Westchester, as well as parts of New Jersey and Connecticut. I even had a few customers as far as Florida.

While I enjoyed many aspects of my job, such as meeting new people and building relationships, I began to feel stuck. I wanted to challenge myself and try something completely new.

A friend of mine mentioned that I might enjoy software engineering and told me to look into The Flatiron School. Even though I had never heard of the Flatiron School, a recommendation from this person meant something.

I decided to take his advice and began to look into the Flatiron School’s software engineering program. The more I read about the program, the more interested I became. Growing up I always had an interest in computers, the internet, and the constant evolution of technology. I never knew about hands-on boot camp courses like those offered by the Flatiron School. After trying traditional school, I knew it was not for me and started my career as a salesman. I was fortunate enough to have family that was supportive of my decision to leave school all those years ago.

Fast forward to today, I am lucky that my wife and the rest of my family have whole heartedly supported my decision to quite my job of nearly ten years and start something completely different. It was a difficult decision and major change, but having their support makes things a little bit easier.

I began my journey of becoming a software engineer just over one month ago. So far I have completed over eighty hours of Pre-work and completed the first week of Phase 1. At times, I feel frustrated and overwhelmed by the things I either haven’t learned or don’t understand. I continue to practice, read, code and watch videos to help me improve. I know that this chapter of my my life will challenge me in many ways, but I know my determination and drive will ultimately help me to succeed.

To anyone else out there considering making a total life change and enrolling in any the Flatiron School’s software engineering courses — go for it. There will be times that you feel completely lost, overwhelmed and ready to throw in the towel. Just remember your “why”, keep pushing yourself forward and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Chances are we are all just as confused as you are.