Is It Possible to Become a Successful Software Engineer at 31?

Yes, with determination and hard work, becoming a successful software engineer at 31 is definitely achievable. My personal experience speaks volumes on this matter.

Deciding to Go Back to College

After dropping out at 22 to chase the woman who would become my wife and who I had a child with, several years passed before I decided to enroll in college once again. By the time I was 27, I realized that going back to school was the right decision. Despite being a few years older than the typical college student, I was determined to succeed both academically and professionally.

Addressing Self-Doubt and Insecurities

There were numerous insecurities holding me back, such as the belief that I hadn't taken a class in a decade, that all the kids in school had been pursuing computer science since high school, and that my age was a disadvantage. I felt that the math and coding would be too difficult, and employers might not be interested in hiring someone as old as me, especially when they could choose someone younger.

Embracing Determination and Hard Work

Despite these insecurities, I was determined to prove myself. I worked harder than anyone else, and I was willing to put in the time and effort needed to succeed. Additionally, I had to balance family and school, which made my daily commute to both nearly a three-hour round trip. I didn't have the luxury of doing fancy side projects or joining clubs, but I knew that my hard work and dedication would pay off.

Securing an Internship and Full-Time Offer

By the time I graduated, I had secured an internship that, while it could be seen as a conventional first step, felt like the best way to get a foot in the door of a company and receive professional guidance. After completing the internship, I got a full-time software engineering position with a Fortune 50 company. It turned out that the internship wasn't even necessary, as they had contacted me beforehand to discuss a full-time offer, but my nerves led me to intern first.

Debunking Ageism in Tech

While some companies may have age-related biases, 99% of companies will be open to hiring someone who has performed well academically. Age can actually work in your favor. For instance, having achieved your degree while handling adult responsibilities can demonstrate your ability to manage stress and limited resources. Additionally, older professionals are often seen as more responsible and dependable.

Remember, 30 isn't the same as 50. While you might not be the tech-savvy 20-somethings, your age and life experience can be an asset in the work environment. The key is to showcase your skills and dedication.

Conclusion

Would you prefer to be 30-something doing what you do now or 30-something writing code? The choice is yours, and every day is an opportunity to start again. So, go for it. Your age is irrelevant when it comes to programming. Pursuing a career in software engineering at any age can lead to a fulfilling and successful path.