Field Switch

anecapen

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Hi everyone, I am a noob with computers but it has always been an interest of mine. It just seems very intimidating to get in to. I'm right now in the med field but want to switch in tech field. Not sure where or how to start but only learning through Youtube, TheNextWeb & CodeAcademy. It's great content but I just don't feel I'm fully grasping on to it. Any advice would be great for a novice wanting to build own computer and programming :D
 
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Firstly, welcome to the forum!

CodeAcademy is excellent for learning how to code the basics, I've recommended to a few people that they try it.

Some people are a "jack of all trades," but I'd recommend focusing on either software or hardware/networks as they're very different (IT Technician vs Software Developer etc). Building your own PC can be very valuable knowledge though even if you don't choose to pursue a technician type track.

In terms of software, I'd recommend looking online (or thinking of your own) projects. For example, attempting to create your own stock management system web application etc. This allows you to put what you've learnt into practice.

On the hardware side, should you wish to go that way, it's worth pursuing your CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+ and aiming to get a technicial specialist certification under your belt from Microsoft. These are the gold standard for entry level to intermediate technician roles.

For both paths, it is definitely worth volunteering at a local company who will let you get hands on with kit. I started volunteering at my local computer shop and learnt a lot in a couple of months. From there I went onto an apprenticeship with the same company which was a solid baseline to move ahead.

If you enjoy it, you'll learn quickly. Once something becomes a chore that's when it starts to suck!
 
Welcome aboard :D

I learn thru trial and failure (if that's the right expression). There was no internet back then for me. It was so much fun learning like that. Get practically involved first then seek help when needed, is my suggestion.
 
MIT has an excellent computer science curriculum as does Stanford. What part of the country are you in? See what your local university offers.
 
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