As graduation approaches, I’ve been reflecting on my apprenticeship journey and identifying the lessons that will provide the most value moving forward. Here are four key takeaways, along with insights into where my time could have been better spent.
The Four Most Valuable Lessons
1. Teams Are the Best Way to Complete a Project
The power of collaboration cannot be overstated. Working in a team environment showed me how diverse perspectives and skill sets come together to create more efficient and quality outcomes. Teams offer a support system, where ideas are refined through discussion, obstacles are tackled collectively, and success is a shared accomplishment.
2. Asking Questions Is the Quickest and Most Efficient Way to Learn
Early on, I realized that trying to figure out everything on my own was not only inefficient but also unnecessary. Asking questions, whether in meetings, during code reviews, or through simple conversations allowed me to tap into the expertise of others and gain clarity faster. This approach not only accelerated my learning but also strengthened my connections with team members.
3. Learning a New Language Gets Easier After the First One
Once you feel proficient one programming language, picking up additional ones becomes significantly easier. Most of the time, you’ll rely on the core concepts and features that translate well across languages—except Python, which is definitely much simpler syntax wise! This adaptability will be invaluable as technology continues to evolve, demanding constant growth and learning.
4. Time Flies When You Have Tickets
Working within a ticket-based system taught me just how quickly time passes when you’re focused on specific tasks. Breaking larger projects into manageable tickets not only helps track progress but also instills a sense of purpose and urgency. It’s a great reminder to stay organized and prioritize effectively to make the most of each day.
Where My Time Was Spent Poorly
Stressing About Getting Up To Speed with the Tech Stack
Looking back, I realize I spent too much time worrying about my inexperience with Java + Spring. In reality, everyone is “new” when joining a project or team, as there’s always a learning curve to catch up on the context and details. Fortunately, my team was filled with supportive Java wizards who were always ready to help, and asking for assistance early on would have saved me a lot of unnecessary stress.
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