Q: Could you tell us a little about yourself and where you are based?

My name is Tiago and I'm currently based in Tokyo, Japan. I moved here two years ago with my wife, who is Japanese. I have a background in graphic design, video editing, and motion graphics. Over the years, I've worked with various print media, creating branding logos and engaging visual content. However, I felt a desire to expand my skills beyond traditional design and explore the world of coding and web applications.

Q: Are you completely new to coding or have you done some before?

While I have had some exposure to coding in the past, it was at a very basic level. I dabbled with coding on a kid's computer, learning basic language, and also worked with Visual Basic during high school. But this is my first time diving into the world of full-fledged coding and web development.

Q: What piqued your interest to learn coding?

As a designer, I've always enjoyed creating visually appealing content. However, I often felt limited in my ability to fully control what was happening behind the scenes. I became curious about the coding aspect of web development and how it could complement my design skills. Additionally, I noticed that the job market increasingly demanded full-stack developers who could seamlessly navigate both the front-end and back-end of web applications. This motivated me to take up coding and broaden my skill set.

Q: Any particular goals you are aiming for?

My goal is to complete the full-stack program offered by Altcademy by the end of this year or early next year. I believe that being proficient in both front-end and back-end development will open up a wide range of opportunities in the job market. Ideally, I would love to work for a Japanese company or an international company based in Japan. The flexibility and work-life balance that such positions often provide are important factors for me.

Q: How has your experience been with Altcademy?

I am thoroughly enjoying my experience with Altcademy thus far. The self-paced nature of the program allows me to balance my learning with my other commitments. The platform itself is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it a seamless process to progress through the curriculum. The mentor support provided by Altcademy has been invaluable, and I appreciate having someone to turn to when I encounter challenges or have questions.

Q: What advice do you have for others who are looking to code?

I would advise anyone considering learning to code to embrace the challenge and commit to continuous learning. Coding is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, so it's important to stay updated and embrace new technologies and frameworks as they arise. Don't hesitate to seek help and ask questions when you encounter difficulties. Altcademy's community and mentor support are great resources in this regard. Finally, be sure to apply your knowledge through real-world projects or by building your own personal portfolio. Practical application is crucial for deepening your understanding and gaining confidence in coding.

In conclusion, Tiago's journey in learning coding showcases the possibilities of transitioning from a design background to web development. By leveraging his design expertise and venturing into coding, he is on track to broaden his skill set and achieve his professional goals, all while embracing the flexibility and balance that the programming field offers.