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Starting Right – My Journey into Programming
When I left teaching to pursue a career in programming, I wasn't sure what to expect. The tech industry can seem daunting to newcomers of any age, and imposter syndrome is a common companion. Looking back at my journey through the Mercator Academy's first cohort, I'd like to share some reflections that might particularly resonate with young people considering their future in tech.
From Teaching to Tech: A Leap of Faith
The transition from teaching to tech reminded me of Professor Sugata Mitra's famous "Hole in the Wall" experiment, where children in a Delhi slum taught themselves to use computers with minimal guidance. Like those children, I discovered that with the right environment and support, we can often achieve more than we imagine – regardless of our age or background.
The Power of Community and Diversity
Our cohort brought together people from diverse backgrounds and ages, creating an unexpected sense of community. This diversity proved to be one of our greatest strengths – different perspectives led to richer discussions and more creative problem-solving approaches. As someone who used to teach young people, it was especially exciting to see how quickly our younger cohort members adapted to new concepts and brought fresh perspectives to problems.
Learning by Doing: How the Academy Set Us Up for Success
The academy's structure reflected an understanding of how people learn. The thoughtful progression of concepts and emphasis on practical application created an environment where both experienced professionals and those just starting their careers could thrive. Our final project, which involved replicating a well-known web application, brought together everything we'd learned. Working on a real-world problem with a team helped solidify both technical skills and collaboration abilities.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Progress, Not Perfection
The transition from training to shadowing revealed how well the foundational work had prepared us. Six months after starting, I found myself contributing meaningfully to projects. While imposter syndrome still visits occasionally, having a support network of peers helps put things in perspective.
To anyone considering a career in tech, especially young people just starting out, I'll share what I've learned: believe in your potential, and embrace the struggle. Learning to program isn't always easy, but that's okay. Everyone starts somewhere, and with persistence and the right support, progress is possible.
Looking Ahead: Building a Diverse Future in Tech
Looking ahead, I'm excited about continuing to grow in this field while helping others who are just starting their journey. The tech industry needs diverse perspectives and experiences – there's room for everyone, from career changers to young people starting their first job. Your unique perspective, whatever your age or background, can bring valuable insights to the field.
techUK’s TechTogether campaign, taking place throughout March, is a collection of activities highlighting the UK’s technology sector pursuit to shape a more equitable future. In 2025 we are exploring: Inclusive AI, investing in diverse founders and entrepreneurs, the power of allyship and mentorship, and empowering young people.
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Joe Higgs
Joe Higgs is a Software Developer for Mercator Digital and recently graduated from the Mercator Digital Academy. As a former teacher, Joe is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning