Embracing Ongoing Education
"Knowledge without practice is useless. Practice without knowledge is dangerous." – Confucius
This quote from Confucius has helped me find my way on the path of continuously learning. Being committed to both personal and professional growth has paid off in a big way over the past year. I am excited to talk about my journey and the helpful tools that have illuminated my path.
Having High Aims
While unemployed in Japan, I channeled my situation into a bold ambition: to become a professional developer. Later when I already got a job as Web Developer in Australia I decided to pursue the Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD) credential, recognizing that it was not just about the certificate, but about improving my skills and increasing my value in the industry.
An Universe of Learning Resources
The digital landscape is a goldmine of educational treasures. Here's a snapshot of the platforms that have been pivotal in my learning journey:
- Libraries : An often-overlooked gem, local libraries provide free access to a wealth of knowledge, including LinkedIn Learning. Check out the State Library Victoria
- Online Learning Platforms: Sites like Coursera, EdX, and FreeCodeCamp, alongside Harvard's CS50, offer an array of courses, many of which are free.
- Tech Giants' Contributions: Platforms like Cisco Skills for All, Microsoft Learn, AWS, and RedHat offer specialized learning resources and certifications.
- Paid Memberships: For Laravel learning, platforms like Laracast have been invaluable. Also Udemy courses.
- KodeKloud: An essential resource for practical Kubernetes and DevOps training, offering comprehensive courses and hands-on challenges.
It's Not Just About Input: Put Your Knowledge to Practice
Acquiring knowledge is only one part of the equation. Here's how I applied my learnings:
- Personal Projects: Building real-world projects solidifies new concepts and skills.
- Work Applications: I actively sought ways to use my new skills at work, adding value and demonstrating growth.
The Power of Community
Learning doesn't have to be solitary. This is why I set out to learn Kubernetes, using a range of tools and actively looking for a mentor and a community to help me along the way.
Connect with like-minded people:
- Meetup Events: Attend events in your area to network and learn.
- Online Groups and Forums: Share insights and learn from others in relevant online communities. Try Slack or Discord Channels
- Mentoring: Engage in a mentoring relationship where you can either mentor someone else, benefiting from the reciprocal learning process, or find a mentor to guide you through your learning journey, offering personalized advice and insights based on their experience.
Learning Never Ends
Embracing ongoing education has been a game-changer for me. It has not only helped me grow professionally but has also enriched my personal life. "Back to the Dev" isn't just about certifications or tech. It's about staying curious! I'm constantly taking on new challenges and sharing what I discover through posts and LinkedIn updates.