2 answers
Matthew
Student
Germantown, Maryland
2
Questions
Asked
502 views
As someone interested in technology, what are the most impactful skills or experiences I should prioritize in college to prepare for a career that makes a difference in my community How can I balance building these skills with maintaining my personal well-being?
Hi, I’m a first-generation college student from a small town, studying computer science at a community college. Growing up, I saw how limited access to technology impacted my community, especially for small businesses and students. I’m passionate about using tech to create solutions that uplift underserved areas, but I’m unsure how to get started while juggling school and part-time work. I want to make a meaningful impact but also need guidance on managing stress and building a career path that aligns with my values.
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2 answers
Ibrahim Ali
Software Developer
9
Answers
Mogadishu, Banaadir, Somalia
Updated
Ibrahim’s Answer
Hey there! First off, I just want to say your story is amazing. Being a first-gen college student and juggling school, work, and still wanting to help your community with tech? That’s tough, and I really admire your passion and vision. 💻❤️
You're already thinking with a purpose, which puts you in a great spot to make a real difference. Here’s some advice that might help you on your journey:
💡 1. Start With Useful Skills
Focus on learning tech skills that can be used everywhere, especially in communities that need them:
- Web Development: Learn to create simple, easy-to-use websites. Many small businesses need this.
- Mobile App Development: Perfect for community apps like local news or education tools.
- Databases: Knowing how to organize and handle data is super helpful for nonprofits, schools, and local groups.
- Basic Networking & Cybersecurity: Very useful in areas with limited tech support.
Start small — even just learning HTML/CSS and Git can give you a good start.
🔧 2. Get Hands-On Experience
You don’t need a fancy internship to make an impact:
- Volunteer to build a website for a local business or nonprofit.
- Offer to tutor high school students in basic tech or coding.
- Start a small coding project for your community, like a simple site listing local services or a digital flyer system for events.
These things matter and help you build a portfolio to show later.
🌱 3. Build a Support Network
Find a mentor (like a professor, local tech worker, or an upperclassman) who can give you advice and encouragement.
Join tech clubs or online communities like Code for America, Dev.to, or local meetups.
If your school has TRIO, EOP, or first-gen support programs, get connected — they’re there to help.
You’re not alone, and having the right support makes a big difference.
⚖️ 4. Balance Growth with Well-Being
It's easy to get burned out when juggling school, work, and ambition. Here’s what can help:
- Time-block your weeks (include class, study, work, and rest). Boundaries = balance.
- Treat rest and sleep as necessary, not optional. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
- Keep a “done list” instead of just a to-do list — it’ll help you feel proud of your progress, not overwhelmed.
Remember, building a meaningful career is a marathon, not a sprint. Take care of yourself along the way.
🚀 5. Long-Term Vision
After community college, consider transferring to a university with strong CS and service-learning programs.
Look into internships with nonprofits or mission-driven startups.
Always ask, “How can I use tech to help others?” That question will guide your purpose and help you stand out.
💬 Final Thought
You’re already doing something incredible — using your life experience to drive change. Don’t let comparison or doubt slow you down. Start with one skill, one project, one person helped — and you’ll build a career that uplifts many more.
You’ve got this. And if you ever need help choosing what to learn next, prepping for interviews, or finding ways to grow — I’m here for you. 💪🌍
You're already thinking with a purpose, which puts you in a great spot to make a real difference. Here’s some advice that might help you on your journey:
💡 1. Start With Useful Skills
Focus on learning tech skills that can be used everywhere, especially in communities that need them:
- Web Development: Learn to create simple, easy-to-use websites. Many small businesses need this.
- Mobile App Development: Perfect for community apps like local news or education tools.
- Databases: Knowing how to organize and handle data is super helpful for nonprofits, schools, and local groups.
- Basic Networking & Cybersecurity: Very useful in areas with limited tech support.
Start small — even just learning HTML/CSS and Git can give you a good start.
🔧 2. Get Hands-On Experience
You don’t need a fancy internship to make an impact:
- Volunteer to build a website for a local business or nonprofit.
- Offer to tutor high school students in basic tech or coding.
- Start a small coding project for your community, like a simple site listing local services or a digital flyer system for events.
These things matter and help you build a portfolio to show later.
🌱 3. Build a Support Network
Find a mentor (like a professor, local tech worker, or an upperclassman) who can give you advice and encouragement.
Join tech clubs or online communities like Code for America, Dev.to, or local meetups.
If your school has TRIO, EOP, or first-gen support programs, get connected — they’re there to help.
You’re not alone, and having the right support makes a big difference.
⚖️ 4. Balance Growth with Well-Being
It's easy to get burned out when juggling school, work, and ambition. Here’s what can help:
- Time-block your weeks (include class, study, work, and rest). Boundaries = balance.
- Treat rest and sleep as necessary, not optional. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
- Keep a “done list” instead of just a to-do list — it’ll help you feel proud of your progress, not overwhelmed.
Remember, building a meaningful career is a marathon, not a sprint. Take care of yourself along the way.
🚀 5. Long-Term Vision
After community college, consider transferring to a university with strong CS and service-learning programs.
Look into internships with nonprofits or mission-driven startups.
Always ask, “How can I use tech to help others?” That question will guide your purpose and help you stand out.
💬 Final Thought
You’re already doing something incredible — using your life experience to drive change. Don’t let comparison or doubt slow you down. Start with one skill, one project, one person helped — and you’ll build a career that uplifts many more.
You’ve got this. And if you ever need help choosing what to learn next, prepping for interviews, or finding ways to grow — I’m here for you. 💪🌍
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical engineer, researcher and Software Developer
199
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Develop practical skills in web development, data analysis, mobile apps, and cloud computing to tackle real challenges in communities that need it most. Use your knowledge to make a difference through local projects—like designing websites for small businesses or organizing digital literacy workshops—and proudly display your achievements in an easy-to-view online portfolio.
Enhance your problem-solving skills on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Exercism. Take advantage of free resources like Khan Academy, FreeCodeCamp, and The Odin Project to expand your programming expertise. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, Discord, and Google Meet, while learning from communities on GitHub and Stack Overflow.
Advance your career by customizing your resume to highlight your skills and projects. Keep your LinkedIn profile current, contribute to open-source projects, and work with others to broaden your experience. Use time-blocking to set aside weekly hours for learning, building, networking, and self-care. Make school and rest a priority every day. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method—25-minute focused work sessions with short breaks—can help you stay sharp and avoid burnout.
Maintain a healthy balance. Set clear boundaries for work and study time. Don’t overcommit, and make room for exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, and relationships to stay energized and inspired. Your unique perspective and passion are your strengths—stay focused, take care of yourself, and keep building the change you wish to see.
Enhance your problem-solving skills on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Exercism. Take advantage of free resources like Khan Academy, FreeCodeCamp, and The Odin Project to expand your programming expertise. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, Discord, and Google Meet, while learning from communities on GitHub and Stack Overflow.
Advance your career by customizing your resume to highlight your skills and projects. Keep your LinkedIn profile current, contribute to open-source projects, and work with others to broaden your experience. Use time-blocking to set aside weekly hours for learning, building, networking, and self-care. Make school and rest a priority every day. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method—25-minute focused work sessions with short breaks—can help you stay sharp and avoid burnout.
Maintain a healthy balance. Set clear boundaries for work and study time. Don’t overcommit, and make room for exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, and relationships to stay energized and inspired. Your unique perspective and passion are your strengths—stay focused, take care of yourself, and keep building the change you wish to see.