Two months ago, I embarked on a life-changing journey that accelerated my technical skill set and bolstered my vision of becoming a world-class software engineer: the Andela Technical Leadership Program (ATLP). I first heard about ATLP through a tech community event in Kigali at the end of 2022. As I listened to an alumnus share their story, I was captivated by the intensive, hands-on experience that promised a blend of technical and soft skill development.
Joining ATLP wasn't just a decision, but a commitment to my future. I didn't have any coding experience, but I was always eager to dive into the depths of coding and emerge as a disciplined coder and a technical leader. I saw ATLP as the perfect launchpad to turn my passion for technology into a career that could shape the digital landscape of Rwanda and beyond, so I decided to apply to ATLP in September 2023, and after being admitted, I officially started the program on January 22, 2024.
In these fascinating two months, my coding abilities have grown exponentially. HTML and CSS were my gateways into the intricate world of web development, allowing me to craft the structure and aesthetics of web pages with finesse. JavaScript then brought my designs to life, introducing me to the dynamic capabilities of web applications. The real game-changer, however, has been mastering the backend with NodeJS, Express JS, and MongoDB. Testing, documenting, and implementing APIs (using tools like Postman and libraries like Jest, Swagger, and Mocha) was somehow harsh but worth it. Designing server-side logic and managing databases has unveiled the robust architecture that powers our internet. These skills are the building blocks I am using to forge my path as a well-versed full-stack developer.
Once my nine-month tenure at ATLP concludes, my roadmap includes diving into the fintech sector. This industry's blend of finance and technology excites me, and I plan to contribute by developing secure, innovative solutions that can drive economic growth. Additionally, leveraging the apprenticeship program, I aspire to lend my expertise to businesses, further honing my skills in a real-world environment.
To those considering ATLP, step in with an eager mind and a resilient heart. This program is rigorous but rewarding, designed to teach and transform. The landscape of technology is vast and can seem discouraging, but with ATLP as your compass, even if you don't have any previous coding experience, you can navigate it successfully. Pursue excellence, embrace collaboration, and let us innovate for a brighter future.
In conclusion, as I venture through ATLP, I am more convinced than ever that the future is for those who build it. One thing to keep in mind is
You didn't get this far to only get this far
. Let's make it one line of code at a time.
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