6 answers
Justin
Student
San Bernardino, California
3
Questions
Asked
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Are there any opportunities for people who have no experience to get into the field?
#computer #technology #computer-science
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6 answers
Ana Russell, MBA
Sustainability Product Compliance Engineer
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Ana’s Answer
Hello there! Yes, absolutely! Please look into internships to gain that experience, or even entry level jobs. Neither of those should be requiring previous experience. Some companies even have programs for students that are still completing their curriculum. Bottom line is, please apply to those to gain that experience and apply what you are learning in school.
Jake Carli
IT Manager
4
Answers
Lockport, Illinois
Updated
Jake’s Answer
You don't need professional experience to learn computer technology. Here are a few things that will help you that you can do on your own.
-Read tech websites to understand new technology.
-Take a computer apart and put it back together. You can buy a cheap working computer as a test "lab" on ebay. You want to understand each component and how it works.
-You will want to understand how a network functions and how a computer gets out to the internet. Looking at IP, DNS, Gateway etc and what the purpose of each is.
-Understanding how to install windows on a computer.
-Understanding BIOS and the options within.
-You can install virtual software (virtualbox) on your computer and install an instance of windows (ISO) to break it, fix it and start over.
-Probably the biggest thing is knowing how to google your way out. You will run into issues and will not be the first person to run into them. More than likely there is something out there in the internet that has the fix.
-If you are persistent and don't give up you will find a good paying job in technology without the "required" professional experience.
-Read tech websites to understand new technology.
-Take a computer apart and put it back together. You can buy a cheap working computer as a test "lab" on ebay. You want to understand each component and how it works.
-You will want to understand how a network functions and how a computer gets out to the internet. Looking at IP, DNS, Gateway etc and what the purpose of each is.
-Understanding how to install windows on a computer.
-Understanding BIOS and the options within.
-You can install virtual software (virtualbox) on your computer and install an instance of windows (ISO) to break it, fix it and start over.
-Probably the biggest thing is knowing how to google your way out. You will run into issues and will not be the first person to run into them. More than likely there is something out there in the internet that has the fix.
-If you are persistent and don't give up you will find a good paying job in technology without the "required" professional experience.
Love that answer. Just think how much money I could have saved over the years had google always been there lol. Good luck to all who are pursuing this path.
Sylvester Jackson
Toby Genaro
Customer Success Manager
8
Answers
Pasadena, California
Updated
Toby’s Answer
Justin, this is usually the conundrum for young people finding a career path in technology. But the truth is ... companies need people like you with the right skills to accomplish their business objectives. Find out what companies need ... and give it to them better than anyone else. If you are interested in learning tangible skills like software development and software design ... and you're good ... companies will want to talk to you. Software companies in particular are full of employees in their 20's and 30's. Approach potential employers with high energy ... a fire in the belly ... act like a go-getter who is self driven. You probably wouldn't be on this website if you weren't that kind of person already. Tell potential employers your aspirations ... what do you love doing. If you're talking about something you love doing then that will show in the interview.
So instead of focusing on the experience ... focus on the skills side of the job they're hiring for, talk about a growth path and how you can make valuable contributions to the company with your skills. Software companies especially - view young people as full of energy, but need the guidance, experience, and training that the company can offer. You'll learn a lot on the job with your first employer. That is ... if you pick a good company to work for ... start with a name brand if you can ... or look for startup software companies in Round D funding or later.
Network and talk to people in the software business that are already doing what you want to do
Explore the job responsibilities you think you will like ... and then contrast that with what the real world job is like. You may find that it's not for you. And you can spend your time finding something that you really want to do.
So instead of focusing on the experience ... focus on the skills side of the job they're hiring for, talk about a growth path and how you can make valuable contributions to the company with your skills. Software companies especially - view young people as full of energy, but need the guidance, experience, and training that the company can offer. You'll learn a lot on the job with your first employer. That is ... if you pick a good company to work for ... start with a name brand if you can ... or look for startup software companies in Round D funding or later.
Toby recommends the following next steps:
Mohan Rapaka
Solution Consultant
1
Answer
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Mohan’s Answer
Lots of good pointers shared thus far. Technology industry is constantly evolving with lots of innovation. What you will hear from working professionals is that we are always learning. As you research for open positions, know that every organization has investments in various technologies and these are typically listed in the requirements section of the job description. Companies also recognize that they may not find the perfect match who can be an expert at every one of these technologies. Have an open mind and passion to learn new technologies and the desire to succeed. I've personally hired professionals and worked with folks who switched to IT from other fields and are very successful. All the best in your endeavors
Mohan DV
E-Business Advisor
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Mohan’s Answer
Absolutely!! Yes, there are opportunities for students or freshers who are yet to start their professional career. Look out for internships or entry level jobs that you are interested, build your resume, include your areas of strength and skillset, prepare for interviews and apply the skills to the best. Would suggest to check out jobs portals every twice or thrice a week, so you don't miss out on the opportunities and can apply as and when they are active.
On the other hand, you can also check with your seniors to mentor you and refer for opportunities that they would have in their companies.
All the Best!!
On the other hand, you can also check with your seniors to mentor you and refer for opportunities that they would have in their companies.
All the Best!!
Melisa Cameron
Sr. Project Program Mgr., AT&T Community Engagement
168
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Melisa’s Answer
Hi Justin,
Great question and I agree with Ana - definitely check out internships and even volunteer opportunities with organizations that interest you as they can lead to experiences and also help you grow your networks.
Do you have a mentor? Consider seeking out a mentor in a career or job that interests you. You can schedule an informational interview to learn more and see if this might also lead to internships and job shadowing experiences.
As an example, check out the link below for our AT&T Jobs site and resources for students. Here you can find information about internships and development resources. There are also videos that show what life is like working for the company.
Best wishes for success in your career and educational goals.
Check out this link for AT&T internships and student resources https://connect.att.jobs/students
Great question and I agree with Ana - definitely check out internships and even volunteer opportunities with organizations that interest you as they can lead to experiences and also help you grow your networks.
Do you have a mentor? Consider seeking out a mentor in a career or job that interests you. You can schedule an informational interview to learn more and see if this might also lead to internships and job shadowing experiences.
As an example, check out the link below for our AT&T Jobs site and resources for students. Here you can find information about internships and development resources. There are also videos that show what life is like working for the company.
Best wishes for success in your career and educational goals.
Melisa recommends the following next steps: