This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Precious Kelvin Nwaogu
This is a submission for the WeCoded Challenge: Echoes of Experience
The Beginning: A Dream Without a Roadmap
Growing up in Nigeria, my fascination with technology started early. But from the first time I saw a website, something clicked. It wasn’t just fascinating—it was alive. and that make me curious. How did this work? How is it built? Who built it? Could I do the same?
The problem? I had no formal education in computer science, no roadmap, and no one to guide me. Just an old laptop, an unreliable internet connection, and an unshakable curiosity.
The Struggle: Learning Without a Guide
I turned to the internet, diving headfirst into FreeCodeCamp, Coursera, and online documentation that often felt like reading an alien language. Every day was a battle—debugging errors that made no sense, feeling like an imposter, and pushing forward even when progress seemed invisible.
But I refused to quit. I built projects, from simple HTML pages to full-stack applications. I mastered React.js, TypeScript, and Next.js, and even when imposter syndrome whispered, “You’re not good enough,” my code proved otherwise.
Breaking Barriers: From Learning to Landing Jobs
Without a degree, getting noticed in tech is tough. But I knew that real skills matter more. I built StoryHub, PixSearch, a Nike e-commerce store, and a Next.js Shopping app—not just for practice, but to prove my capabilities.
Then came a major breakthrough: I earned an AWS certificate, solidifying my knowledge in cloud computing. This wasn’t just about learning—it was about showing the world that I was serious. Eventually, my work led me to roles at ONYC Hair and HCLTech, where I contributed as a front-end developer.
Lessons & Reflections
Your path doesn’t have to be traditional to be valid. A degree is great, but skills and experience are what truly matter.
Every struggle is part of the process. Debugging errors, sleepless nights, and self-doubt are all signs of growth.
Certifications can open doors. My AWS certificate gave me credibility in cloud computing, helping me stand out.
A Message to Underrepresented Coders
If you feel like an outsider in tech, know that you belong here. The industry is evolving, and self-taught developers, career changers, and those from unconventional backgrounds are proving that skill and passion matter more than just having a traditional credentials only. Keep learning, keep building, and keep pushing forward.
This is my story, but it could be yours too.
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Precious Kelvin Nwaogu