Hi guys, I'm a computer science student and looking for part-time/casual work in entry level dev or anything related to IT to get my foot in the door.
I don't have extensive programming skills, only small assignments in subjects such as intro to programming (c++), basic data science subject that touched on python, basic sql databases and I've just purchased a javascript course on udemy to learn some web dev and to begin to make some projects and learn to use github. Thats about it, but very eager to learn and improve my skills.
I have prev work exp in a completely dif industry, logistics/supply chain in corporate environment, retail exp and have a bach of business before this career change. Thinking of leaving out my previous education and dumbing down my resume abit cos, I feel like I'm gonna get overlooked for intern positions. I'm in my late 20s, but look like early 20s haha.
Anyone within the industry or knowledge have any pointers to get some experience? My ultimate goal is to become a developer working on cloud based apps/websites etc. I don't mind working something IT based like help desk whilst studying if I cant find a intern dev role tho…I just dono where to start lol.
Thank you for your time 😊!
If you don't mind moving to Canberra look into the IT Cadetship program. You work in a government department 2-4 days a week (up to you) and continue studying part time. You get moved around on rotations (depending on the department, at DHS I had to organise my own rotation if I wanted one) so you can experience different roles and decide where you want to stay. You start as an APS 2 (~55-60k pro rata) and then get to be an APS 4 when you're finished your degree (~70k). This is how I started my career.
If you're going to graduate soon look for graduate jobs, but if not, there's not much you can do while still studying. I would advise trying to make a portfolio with the skills you do have (try and think of some interesting projects that people might use). I was part of a video game hacking community and I made a couple of tools while I was a student (though I would be embarrassed to show them to a potential employer now heh). You could also look at some open source stuff and try to contribute but that can be hard (if there's an easy feature to add someone might have done it already). If you're not going to do a grad program, when you're nearly finished your degree look for jobs labelled Junior and that don't require any experience and say something like enthusiastic quick learner required etc and use your portfolio. These are few and far between but do exist. Good luck!