Switching to tech from campus, where should I start?

Hey everyone, I'm new here. I graduated last year and I'm still looking for a job. I studied something unrelated to tech, but lately I've been thinking about switching into tech. The problem is I don't know where to begin and I don't know how to code at all. I have time and I'm willing to learn, but there are so many options and it's a bit overwhelming. For those who made the switch, what path would you recommend? Like web development, data analysis, or something else? Also, is it better to focus on an attachment or internship first, or should I build my own small projects? Any advice for a total beginner in Kenya would really help. I just want to pick one thing and start.

Replies

Joshua SsemakulaOct 11

Totally get the overwhelm, it's real. The advice above is solid - start with one thing and finish it before worrying about the next step. I'd add that in Kenya, there are free local resources like the Ajira Digital program and places like NaiLab that sometimes run beginner workshops.

Samuel KiptooOct 11

Hey, welcome! Start with HTML and CSS on freeCodeCamp, build a simple profile page, and share it on GitHub, that will show you’ve got something real and keep you moving.

Brian OtienoOct 11

Hey, welcome! I made the switch myself, so I feel you. My advice: pick web development because it's the easiest to get started with and there's tons of free material. Start with HTML and CSS, then JavaScript, and build one tiny project like a personal profile page. You don't need to wait for an attachment, just start small and show what you've built, that already puts you ahead of most graduates. What kind of work do you see yourself enjoying, building websites or working with numbers and reports?

AmaniOct 12

Hey there, welcome to the community. One concrete next step: pick one free course like freeCodeCamp's Responsive Web Design and finish it before worrying about the rest, that gives you a real feel for whether you enjoy it. And don't wait for an attachment, small projects you can show beat waiting around every time.

Peter NjorogeOct 12

All good advice above. One thing that helped me was treating it like a job hunt: pick one track, set aside a couple of hours daily, and after a month you'll know if it actually clicks for you. Also, stick around here and follow the free local stuff like Ajira Digital, consistency matters more than speed. What made you want to switch in the first place?

Naomi WanjikuOct 12

Honestly, the fact that you're ready to pick one thing and start already puts you ahead of so many people. Since web dev has been mentioned a lot, here's a tiny step: this week, just watch a 10-minute YouTube video on what HTML actually is (like, what it does on a page). No coding yet, just get the idea. Once that clicks in your head, the next step feels less scary. And yes, small projects beat waiting for an internship every time, in Kenya, showing a simple profile page you built with your own hands says more than any certificate. What's one thing you're curious about, even if it sounds vague?