I’ve decided I want to go to school for some kind of IT career. I’m very unsure of how to even go about getting started with the first step, or even what the first step really is.
I grew up around computers but I’m not a big geek with them. I think it could be fun and I’m sure the pay is good with some of them. I found a list of different computer-related jobs on google and I just want to use them as an example.
1. Software Architect
2. Data Scientist
3. Devops Engineer
4. Software Engineer
5. Java Developer
6. Mobile Developer
7. Frontend Developer
8. Software Developer
9. Database Admin
10. Net Developer
With all of these, what do they all have in common as far as schooling and requirements for me to be qualified? Before actually learning how to do a particular job ofcourse.
I just want to find out how to get my foot in the door because I’m working at a warehouse right now that pays ok but I know I can do something better with my life than that. I’m only 21.
Thanks for your help everyone.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
I just want to make sure you understand the difference between IT and Computer Science.
Although they both deal with computers and technology, they are different in some areas and similar in others.
Computer Science deals with a lot of theory of how computers work. You get into how programming languages are developed, how algorithms work, how operating systems work, how software and hardware talk to each other, etc. There is also a lot of math involved. Ideally, you have a very logical mind and can break down a complex problem into very small steps.
IT on the other hand is the hands-on, practical approach to computers. In IT, you maybe installing a new computer system for an employee, fixing an employee's computer, you may be in charge of a server, you may be in charge of the network (routers, switches, cabling, firewall, etc), or you may do a little bit of everything.
If you don't like math, then Computer Science probably won't be a good choice for you.
computer science is one field of study. that is a broader branch so to speak that can have many specializations within. management information systems, software engineering is another field of IT related work. dealing with code and developing programs. some basic IT jobs like repair, networking, maybe cyber security, you maybe able to do with just professional certifications in the field. CompTIA, Cisco, and others hold certifications testing that anyone can do. study on your own, or maybe take a class at a community college to study, then pay and pass the exam. some are forever, others you have to renew every couple years or so.
the military is another option. especially in the Air Force, among other branches, they have hundreds of jobs in IT field. as long as you qualify for it via the ASVAB, and needed scores for specific jobs, you can get an IT related job. they will pay to train you, which will include professional certifications. the military is only four years long for enlisted personnel, so it's not forever. then with the training and experience you'll earn, you very well could find a similar, decent paying job after service without needing a college degree to start. many companies would rather take years of relevant experience than a college degree and no work experience or internships.
while in the military in an IT job, you'll also likely have to qualify for a secret clearance status or higher, which if you are able to obtain and hold, companies in the civilian world also find that very valuable. the military lifestyle isn't for everyone, but it can be to help get a jump start on a career, and with many benefits, like the GI Bill, to help pay for college if still desired.
Most of these will require a degree in Computer Science. CS degree programs do vary, but you'll need to know physics, calculus, formal logic, and a few computer languages. You may want to try some online tutorials to teach yourself some programming to get an idea of what it's like and if you'd enjoy it and have an aptitude for it. Python is a good first language.