From Liberal Arts Major to Front-End Engineer: A 3-Year Reflection on Software Engineering Interviews, Career, and Life in Singapore

From Liberal Arts Major to Front-End Engineer: A 3-Year Reflection on Software Engineering Interviews, Career, and Life in Singapore

Introduction:
When it comes to online case studies and success stories, it's important to remember that they often suffer from survivorship bias. We tend to only hear about the people who successfully transitioned into new careers, while overlooking the many who struggled but didn't share their experiences. This is why, as I share my own journey, I want to emphasize how lucky I am because I've experienced the moments of hard work without any tangible results.

The Challenging Transition:
When I made the decision to switch careers, I quit my job and dedicated all my time to job hunting. Looking back now, unless you already have substantial savings, I wouldn't recommend this approach. Being unemployed and uncertain about the future can easily lead to panic and self-doubt. I found myself constantly questioning my choices, wondering if I should just give up.

Lessons from "Nightmare Alley":
In the movie "Nightmare Alley," we see how the ringmaster, who thrives on the pain of others, is embraced and applauded by the audience. In a way, this is reminiscent of how some people find joy in the struggles of others. But it's important to remember that just like the ringmaster, they too are geeks in their own right. Adversity and weak will can either tame us like wild animals or fuel our determination to become beasts ourselves.

Lessons Learned:

1. Persistence is key: Throughout my journey, I've learned that persistence is crucial. There will be moments when you doubt yourself and consider giving up, but it's important to keep pushing forward. Success rarely comes overnight, and it's the ones who persist through the challenges who eventually reach their goals.

2. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Failure is inevitable, especially when transitioning into a new career. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, view them as valuable learning experiences. Each rejection or mistake is a chance to grow and improve. Embracing failure with a growth mindset will ultimately lead to success.

3. Build a support network: Surrounding yourself with a supportive network of friends, mentors, and fellow professionals can make a world of difference. They can provide guidance, advice, and encouragement when you need it most. Joining industry-specific communities or attending networking events can help you connect with like-minded individuals who can support you on your journey.

Conclusion:
Transitioning from a liberal arts background to a career in front-end engineering has been a challenging yet rewarding experience for me. I've learned the importance of persistence, embracing failure, and building a strong support network. While my journey may have been fortunate, I hope that by sharing my experiences, others can find inspiration and guidance on their own career transitions. Remember, success is not guaranteed, but with the right mindset and dedication, you can increase your chances of achieving your goals.