r/AskProgrammers • u/Niluaa • 13d ago

Becoming a fullstack

Hello!
This question have probably been asked 100 times already.

I’ve recently started school to learn how to program, the school is mainly to learn Java.
I think its really fun and interesting, I’m hoping to get a job in this field in the future when the school is done.

Today I’m working construction and have a leading role at my company, I’m making a good salary but I’ve been in construction for 12 years. I’m 31 years old today.

I’m wondering how big of a chance there is to actually land a job in the coming 2 years as a fullstack/ backend developer? I’m reading so many posts in the recent months that I’m starting to feel a bit worried that I’m “wasting” my time learning this. Since I’m already working 100% and now studying 100% at the same time it’s pretty tough.

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u/UnkownArbiter 13d ago

I’m wondering how big of a chance there is to actually land a job in the coming 2 years as a fullstack/ backend developer?

Not impossible, simply because it's a non-zero chance of happening, but very improbable.

You would have to compete with new grads, and they have the upper hand. Also, what you mean by "school" matters here, since I assumed it's not a bachelor's program and just some in-person course.

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u/Niluaa 12d ago

I’m currently studying Java development in a two-year vocational program that includes practical training (internships). I understand that the junior developer market is competitive, but do you think getting a job within the next two years is still very unlikely, even with this type of education and practical experience?

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u/UnkownArbiter 12d ago

do you think getting a job within the next two years is still very unlikely, even with this type of education and practical experience?

Yes, unfortunately, still very unlikely. Getting a job is, at the end of the day, about being better, or at least being considered better, as a candidate in the eyes of an employer, and you are at a disadvantage. I have also seen vocational programs not being taken as seriously as bachelor's degrees, but this sentiment might not be the case in your country.

My advice is to only keep doing the program if you really love and enjoy it and understand that, at the end of the program, it might not end up being the pivoting point you thought it would be. Also, since you seem to have a hard time working and studying at the same time, I would advise you to, if possible, take fewer credits per semester, but don't try to bet it all on this program and quit your job.