Kalina Edwards wanted to make a strategic career move that didn’t require a college degree, would incorporate her creativity and would give her the opportunity to build her own business in the future. She then found a career that met all her needs: Web Development. Kalina continued to work full-time but committed to learning to code an hour a day. 18 months later, she was able to make the career transition when she landed her first temporary position as a developer. Kalina was able to experience a lot and grow within that role and in the tech community. Today, she’s working as a freelancer developer and seeking out her next career opportunity.
We asked Kalina to share her experience starting a career in tech with the community.
What first encouraged you to learn to code and pursue a career in tech?
There were many things that played a factor in encouraging me to learn to code! I needed a career that didn’t require a degree, a skill that would allow me to create a business and something that allows me to express my creativity.
What work were you doing when you first joined Treehouse and how did you integrate learning into your everyday life?
When I first joined Treehouse I was working as a tech support agent, troubleshooting equipment with customers. I was able to incorporate studying into my schedule by doing just an hour a day of courses on Treehouse.
I needed a career that didn’t require a degree, a skill that would allow me to create a business and something that allows me to express my creativity.
How has your career evolved since learning to code? We’d also love to hear more about the work you’re doing now.
Well after studying with Treehouse for about a year and a half I was able to land my first coding job in March. It was a short term position for me but I definitely enjoyed the experience being in a full-time web developer role and I learned a great deal. Right now I am enjoying working freelance and seeking out my next opportunity in the coding industry.
What have you found the greatest challenges of coding?
The greatest challenge I had while learning to code was staying consistent when I became frustrated with my code!
What are your favorite aspects of working in the tech industry compared to past careers?
What I love most about working in the tech industry is that I got to travel and go to a conference at the expense of my employer. But more importantly, there was also the financial benefits and lifestyle change that came with working in tech.
What has the value of a Treehouse education meant to you?
The value of a Treehouse education has meant everything to me. It has helped me reach another level in my career that has given me a better life and the realization that anything is truly possible.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with students who are just starting out?
My advice to students starting out would be that coding can be hard and tough at times but by practicing coding and consistent dedication, you will be able to write code in no time.
The value of a Treehouse education has meant everything to me. It has helped me reach another level in my career that has given me a better life and the realization that anything is truly possible.
Start learning to code today with your free trial on Treehouse.
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