|
|
|
|
|
|
by rglover
868 days ago
|
|
|
Yes. If you truly have a desire to learn programming, you'd be far better off rationing your cash to extend your runway and doing self-guided instruction. Perhaps consider building a product that leverages your existing sales knowledge and use that as the project to teach you how to code. |
|
|
OP, if your motivations are largely economical, you're probably best off leveraging your existing skillset and experience. Sales is a very valuable skill, and engineering/tech, while valuable in isolation, truly shines when applied to a domain. Building your own product while learning how to code could propel you forward in your current field.
On the other hand, if this is something with a more intrinsic motivation behind it (which it sounds like it could be the case given your post) then it might be worth considering doing the "slow" path. Have you looked into community college courses that you might take nearby? This might allow you to work your learning into the other obligations in your life. I chose a similar path (my original background was in consulting/sales) after I realized I loved the subject of computer science. I really benefited and appreciated a more formal academic setting. Funnily enough, I discovered this love after building my own product. (Which was terribly constructed, but a great experience!)
In the end to truly achieve a high level of proficiency takes time. I'm coming up on six years and only recently feeling exceedingly competent.
Remember that no bootcamp or university "owns" the knowledge and satisfaction of programming, it's out there accessible for anyone willing to put in the time. =) You'll have to have a deep look at your motivations and decide what is best for you. For me, learning programming and computer science was one of the best things I ever did.
This article is a classic and might be a nice read for you: https://norvig.com/21-days.html
Edit: Another great resource to self-study: https://web.mit.edu/6.001/6.037/sicp.pdf