# My first year as a software engineer and how it all began.

Hi, I am Debjit Biswas, A JR Full Stack web developer. I am sharing my first years experience with you here. You can visit my portfolio at %[https://debjit.in]

### How my interest grew!

After learning the fundamentals of computers in school, I have always been interested in and involved in technology. Despite being from a rural part of India, I can access most utilities, which helped me to pursue this as an hobby.

### Starting my Professonal Journey

My journey into coding begins when I feel the need to create a website for a gaming event. Laravel is the ideal framework to start with, in my experience; I started with PHP thus it was the best option for me.

### My Learning path

**Backend **

I have dedicated all of my attention to learning Laravel since lockdown. I primarily rely on free resources and YouTube videos as a self-taught developer. After a while, I realised I was stuck in a "Tutorial Hell". After taking a break from learning for a month or two, I tried again, this time concentrating on creating real life projects. 

When working on real-world projects, I discovered that I learn more effectively. Additionally, it's acceptable to use Google to find and reproduce other people's solutions to these problems.



**Front End and Mobile**

Despite not knowing Java, I've always wanted to create an Android application. I'm familiar with JavaScript, and I discovered that react is widely used and in great demand. Additionally, I can use the same code to create an Android app with React Native. So I got my first Udemy course and began learning React.

**Communities**

I've joined a few react and laravel communities in order to get help, mentorship, and guidance. In addition, I would share my knowledge and experience to others who wished to learn.

Your experience as a programmer will benefit greatly by joining a community. Sign up for Bitfumes, Scimba, or any other community you choose. Being a part of a community is very beneficial for obtaining employment and references.

**Roadmaps**

In my case "Roadmap" do not work!

### Why Did I Apply for This Job? And The Experience!

I got in touch with the employer after discovering a job opening in one of my communities. I didn't know what to expect, but I applied after completing two full-time projects on my own: an online exam application and a blood donation diary for a local NGO.

I recently began learning React, and I told my employer and a senior about it. In my interview, I disclosed everything I knew and didn't know, and with two completed projects, I was offered my first-ever JR Dev job.

My top priorities when applying for the job were to gain mentorship and practical experience.  As a startup, there is a lot of room for me to grow.
My senior always ask if I need a new course or any subscription services. As a result of having a mentor and motivation now, I discovered that I learn fairly quickly on the job. I find that on-the-job training is incredibly beneficial.

### Conclusions

- Find a Mentor

- Apply for paid internships or JR Roles.

- If you have some fundamental knowledge, apply right away for a JR position, be honest about what you know and don't know, and demonstrate your willingness to learn on the job.

- Create some real-world projects to increase your probability of hiring.

- It's essential to join a community.

- Share what you've done, then seek advice or make a change. Don't get trapped on one issue; contact your SR for assistance.

- When asked "How much time do you need," add two times that amount to your estimate.

- Sleep and take frequent breaks.

- Contact a senior for assistance and direction if you are experiencing burnout or imposter syndrome.


-  There is no ideal time, and you can never be completely prepared, Apply now.


#4articles4weeks #week1