3 answers
Lucas
Student
Mahwah, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
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What specific skills helped you get your first job in computer technology, and how did you learn them?
I’m a student who wants to work in computer technology but I’m not sure where to start. I want to know what skills real professionals used to get their first job. I’m interested in learning what to focus on as a beginner
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3 answers
Rahul Patil
Software engineer
13
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Rahul’s Answer
Hi Lucas,
For my first job in tech, few specific skills made the biggest difference :
1. Strong fundamentals in one programming language : I focused on Java/Python basics - Variables, loops, functions, debugging. you don't need to know everything, but being confident in one language shows employers you can learn the rest.
2. Understanding how real projects are built : I learned the basics of Git/GitHub, how to structure a small project, and how to read someone else's code. There are practical skills companies look for in beginners.
3. Building small projects on my own : simple things like a to-do ap, a small API or a basic website helped me to talk about real work during interviews. Even small projects stand out when they are well-documented.
4. Problem - Solving mindset : Practicing a few coding challenges (LeetCode or Hacker rank) taught me how to think through problems clearly.
If you start with these basics, you will be in a great position for your first role.
For my first job in tech, few specific skills made the biggest difference :
1. Strong fundamentals in one programming language : I focused on Java/Python basics - Variables, loops, functions, debugging. you don't need to know everything, but being confident in one language shows employers you can learn the rest.
2. Understanding how real projects are built : I learned the basics of Git/GitHub, how to structure a small project, and how to read someone else's code. There are practical skills companies look for in beginners.
3. Building small projects on my own : simple things like a to-do ap, a small API or a basic website helped me to talk about real work during interviews. Even small projects stand out when they are well-documented.
4. Problem - Solving mindset : Practicing a few coding challenges (LeetCode or Hacker rank) taught me how to think through problems clearly.
If you start with these basics, you will be in a great position for your first role.
Andreea Traila
Solutions Architect
1
Answer
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Andreea’s Answer
Hi Lucas,
When I started my first tech job as a Microsoft System Administrator, a few things really helped me:
1. Having a basic understanding of computers is essential. Being in my third year at university gave me a head start. Today, you can learn basic computer science and programming on your own using free resources like Khan Academy. Companies like Microsoft, Cisco, and Google offer plenty of helpful articles too.
2. Practice with mock labs and development platforms to create real-life scenarios and work on basic troubleshooting.
3. Take exams from these providers and mention them on your resume.
Good luck!
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/
https://www.netacad.com/
https://grow.google/intl/ALL_in/learn-skills/
https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/learn/training-certifications/training/modeling-labs/index.html
https://labs.azure.com/
When I started my first tech job as a Microsoft System Administrator, a few things really helped me:
1. Having a basic understanding of computers is essential. Being in my third year at university gave me a head start. Today, you can learn basic computer science and programming on your own using free resources like Khan Academy. Companies like Microsoft, Cisco, and Google offer plenty of helpful articles too.
2. Practice with mock labs and development platforms to create real-life scenarios and work on basic troubleshooting.
3. Take exams from these providers and mention them on your resume.
Good luck!
Andreea recommends the following next steps:
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2397
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you would like to work in computer technology.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many computer tech related careers, eg web developer, apps developer, network engineer, system administrator, eep developer, cyber security, etc. you can find out more online
2. Each of the above have its own knowledge. You can do find out more to determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to e
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many computer tech related careers, eg web developer, apps developer, network engineer, system administrator, eep developer, cyber security, etc. you can find out more online
2. Each of the above have its own knowledge. You can do find out more to determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to e
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!