It’s been a rough year. Seven months following my graduation and I remain unemployed. I’ve had a few leads that led to interviews in the past two months, but none of them panned out. On the other hand, in 2014 I also managed to finish my Masters degree, learned more about myself and my goals, enhanced my skills, contributed positively to my community, and made new friends. When I put things in perspective, 2014 had more gains than losses, and I hope I can continue those gains going into 2015.
I’ve decided to switch my learning focus away from web development and more towards programming and data analysis. It makes more sense to go in this direction given my background. I’m focusing less on Javascript and more on Python, SQL, and R. This spring I’ve signed up for a few free MOOCs that I’m excited about:
- Information Visualization – The ability to effectively communicate data is a hugely relevant skill for the kind of jobs I’ve been pursuing. There are some really great benefits to this course. It comes with free access to Sci2 Tool, a data visualization software. The first half of the course is focused on readings and lectures, and then in the second half I’ll have the opportunity to do actual client work for a nonprofit. That’s going to make an excellent addition to my portfolio.
- MITx 6.00.1x: Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python – Javascript has given me a general idea of programming basics but I really want a foundation in computer science. Plus I’ll get to learn some python too.
Data Analysis and Statistical Inference – A good way to review statistics and learn R in the process. It doesn’t begin until March but I’ve started on the labs on DataCamp.Switching to MITx 15.071: The Analytics Edge, just going to complete the R labs on DataCamp for the Coursera course.
In addition I’d like to finish Database Foundations on Treehouse (I’m about halfway through) and the intermediate through advanced lessons on Excel Exposure. This shouldn’t take more than a few days. I’m currently working on Javascript Road Trip Part 3 at Code School. I don’t want to go into front-end web development anymore, but I’m really intrigued by d3.js. I’d like to start working on some of these projects once I have a better understanding of programming.
This is all so I can make good use of my free time, stay sharp and keep building my skill set. Here’s hoping 2015 also brings employment.