Programming, how did I actually get into that?!

It all started when my husband started his journey at Code Institute in 2019. He has been into computers since childhood and started programming in his teens. When he came into contact with Code Institute, I watched with him from time to time. It did look funny.

In August 2020, he obtained his Software Development diploma with “First Class Honours”, the highest attainable. In September 2020 he asked me: "Isn't that something for you too? You have quite a talent for languages ​​and programming are actually just languages." That's right, I can get by well in several languages ​​outside our national borders.

So I tried Code Institute's 5 Day Coding Challenge.

It was indeed a lot like learning languages ​​and was actually a lot of fun. But it was a challenge to combine studies with a then almost 1-year-old child. And how do you get the money for it? All nice obstacles on the road.

Fortunately, those bears all ran away quickly. My husband was able to take over some more care of our son during the weekends and my then employer was willing to pay for the training.

No sooner said than done. I started the training in December 2020 and yes, it was tough. I have sometimes thought: what have I gotten myself into? Or: I can't do this at all, I still sometimes think, the well-known “Imposter Syndrome”. But ultimately, after many educational moments, breakdowns and fun, I completed the course in December 2021 with “Distinction”, which is equivalent to “First Class Honors”. They only changed the name at Code Institute.

Even then I still thought: yes, but I'm actually not that good. I thought that for quite a long time too. But on the other hand, for someone who had never done anything with programming before and can get that grade, that's quite something.

Maybe people are now thinking: yes, nice, your husband must have helped. Of course, if I really couldn't see it anymore or couldn't figure it out, he helped me in the right direction and checked/tested my codes. But my husband is not the type to say: oh, let me do it for you. More the type: no, your education/work, figure it out yourself.

Then why start your own company?

Yes, why not? This way I can be flexible for my children, now there are two. I don't mind working some hours in the evening, but for a boss it is less of an issue to spend several evenings a week behind your screen. Companies really want women who can program, but preferably for a minimum of 28 to 32 hours. Yes, and I have to be honest: I am not prepared to do that now. If the youngest also goes to school, that would be an option, but that will take more than three years.

So until then, I am available to anyone who wants to use my services as a self-employed person.