As I become closer and closer to obtaining my ICS BA degree from University at Manoa, I am slowly learning I need to gain way more experience programming to land a job. I currently have a full-time job as a Operations Manager at FedEx Ground (not in the computer field), and I have a family to support. I am also still undecided on what I plan to do with my degree. I am an older student, and my main reason for returning to school was to one day have a career change. I believe everyone should have a job that they truly love. I really want to be able to say that one day. I’ve been pretty comfortable working at FedEx Ground for over 10 years, but I am not truly happy. I believe becoming a professional programmer would actually make me happy. Unfortunately, I don’t have the luxury of completely devoting my life to programming right now. My goal is to hopefully save a bit money so when after I graduate I could step down to a part-time position and start my programming career.
I returned to school back in 2011 mainly to get my first Bachelor’s degree. Since 2011, I have always been going to school part-time and working full-time. I honestly believe all of my hard work, sacrifice, and lack of sleep is going to pay off for me in the end. At least, I will have options and no regrets.