My fascination for computers and the limitless power of technology began the first day I saw Professor Steven Hawkins on TV. (I’ll talk about this in a separate article.) Before that, I had read his book “A Brief History of Time.” And, like pretty much everyone else, I fell in love with the man, admiring his genius.
Among other things, Professor Hawkins made me realize that no subject — not even cosmology! — is beyond my ability to comprehend. Today, I’m learning what in my wildest imagination I never thought I would: software development, computer programming.
There's so much potential in technology to improve people's lives, and I’m joining the industry to explore that potential.
I’m a writer and copyeditor fascinated by computers and the impact technology has on our everyday lives. I believe that everyone — disabled or not, rich or poor, in the Global North or South — deserves access to the technology they need to live a fulfilling life. And with open source and accessibility, we can break down all the barriers to the use of technology and build a more inclusive society.
I’m excited to start on this path to becoming a professional software developer solving real-world problems with code and feeling like some magician. I’m committed to implementing accessibility best practices in the software applications I build. I’m committed to contributing to open-source projects.
Open source is all about collaboration and community, and it's amazing to see how many people are working together to create something that benefits everyone. Being a part of that community and contributing my own code is something I'm really looking forward to.
The tech community is truly incredible. It’s literary the best there is — so welcoming and supportive. I’ve learned so much about software development — careers, useful tools, networking, interview tips, coding tips — in just a few weeks of hanging around the community on Twitter.
If it weren’t for you, tech geeks, I would be utterly confused and probably discomfited by the slew of tools and learning resources online (trust me, it can be frustrating for a beginner).
But by following a lot of devs on Twitter and taking careful note of their recommendations and advice, I have a clear roadmap to becoming a practiced software developer (with solid projects in my portfolio), and I have knowledge of, and access to, the best tools and resources for reaching my goal. Thank you, Tech Twitter.
Deciding to learn coding and become a software developer is one of the best decisions I've ever made. Contributing to open source projects and using technology to improve accessibility are a couple of the ways I hope to make a positive impact with my skills. I can't wait to see where this journey takes me, and I'm excited to share it with others along the way!
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