Get ready to hear about how Daniel K. Hunter changed careers and learned to code! A story with lots of helpful lessons. Daniel’s journey is like a roadmap with tips for people thinking about changing jobs or trying coding. From why he wanted to change to how he learned to code, Daniel shares stories that can inspire you. In the end, you’ll not just know more but feel excited to take charge of your own work and learning journey. Let’s check out how Daniel’s story can teach us about growing and learning!

The Journey Begins

In October 2014, Daniel began his exciting journey in Brooklyn. Back then, he worked in Sales and Marketing for music but decided to switch to something totally different—becoming a programmer.

Daniel didn’t take the easy road. He spent 10 whole months, or around 1400 hours, teaching himself how to code. It was a bit tough at times, but his dedication paid off when he got his first full-time developer gig in Philly.

Why Change?

First things first, know why you want to make a career change. People consider making a career change for various reasons, and here are some common motivations:

1. Personal Growth: Seeking new challenges and opportunities for personal development is a common reason. A desire for continuous learning and growth often drives individuals to explore different career paths.

2. Passion and Interest: Many people want a career aligned with their passions and interests. Doing something you love can make work more fulfilling and enjoyable.

3. Better Work-Life Balance: Some individuals may be looking for a career that allows for a better balance between work and personal life. This could involve pursuing a job with more flexible hours or reduced stress.

4. Financial Improvement: Seeking better financial prospects is a practical reason for a career change. This might involve aiming for higher-paying roles or exploring industries with better compensation.

5. Alignment with Values: Individuals may want a career that aligns better with their values and beliefs. This could involve working for a company with a mission they support or a role that has a positive impact on society.

6. Health and Well-Being: For some, health considerations may be a driving factor. A career change might be motivated by a need for a less stressful environment or a job that supports better physical and mental well-being.

7. Job Insecurity: Changes in the job market or concerns about job stability in a particular industry may prompt individuals to explore more secure and in-demand career paths.

8. Geographic or Lifestyle Changes: A desire to relocate or make lifestyle changes, such as working remotely, can be a strong motivation for a career change.

9. Burnout: Experiencing burnout in a current job may lead individuals to seek a career that is more sustainable and less emotionally draining.

10. Opportunity for Entrepreneurship: Some may want to pursue entrepreneurship or self-employment, driven by a desire for autonomy and the chance to create their own business.

And Daniel did it for financial improvement and the desire to solve global problems through coding. It’s like having a map for your journey. When things get tricky, knowing why you started keeps you motivated and focused. So, figure out your “why” – it’s like having a guide for your career journey.

No Degree, No Problem

If math, high school, or college isn’t your strong suit, no worries—you’re not alone.

Daniel struggled with math and dropped out of college, yet here he is, crashing the programming world. The lesson? Don’t let your background limit your potential. Remember, where you start doesn’t decide where you can go.

Bootcamp or Self-taught

Bootcamp or self-taught? Daniel breaks it down. He opted for the self-teaching route, citing financial reasons. Now, think about your situation. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Take a moment to figure out what works best for you. Imagine it like trying on shoes—you want the one that fits just right. Whether it’s learning on your own or joining a bootcamp, the key is finding the path that suits you and your goals. Everyone’s journey is different, and that’s perfectly okay!

Learning Style

Discovering your learning style is important. Are visuals your thing, or do you prefer in-person guidance? Find what suits you. Don’t stick to a plan just because it’s free. Explore different ways, dive into learning, and connect with your group. Learning is like finding the perfect fit—make it work for you!

Mornings, Nights, and Weekends

With a full-time job and a commute, Daniel maximized his mornings, nights, and weekends. It’s a strategic move, and Daniel shares his schedule openly.

Mornings

  • Programming: 6 a.m.–8 a.m
  • Morning Commute: 8 a.m.–9 a.m (Listen to Tech Podcasts)

Nights

  • Evening Commute: 6 p.m.–7 p.m (Listen to Tech Podcasts)
  • Programming: 3 hours between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Weekends

  • Saturday: 5 hours
  • Sunday: 5 hours

Life will throw curveballs, but having a routine and a supportive community, like freeCodeCamp, is the secret sauce.

Tools and Curriculum

Daniel invested in a MacBook Pro and utilized resources like Codecademy, Codeschool, Treehouse, Thinkful, Eloquent JavaScript, and Coderbyte. You don’t need fancy equipment to start coding—cloud IDEs and Chromebooks work wonders.

First Job

Daniel took an unconventional approach, sending cold emails to a design agency, and it paid off with an apprenticeship. Even if there’s no job opening, go for it. Apply for positions that might seem a bit beyond your current experience—you never know, you might just get your chance. It’s all about taking that leap and being open to opportunities.

Mistakes Happen

Mistakes are part of the journey, and Daniel is honest about his.

  • Don’t learn alone
  • Admit when you don’t know
  • Ask questions
  • Teach others 
  • Write about your learning journey.

Keep in mind that mastering everything takes time. Build, break things, and share your experiences through writing—it’s a powerful way to grow.

Live. Love. Serve.

Live your life with authenticity, love your close ones openly, and serve those in need. Embrace the journey of being a beginner, and remember that mastery is a lifelong pursuit. Let these principles guide your path to a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Community Matters

Daniel’s commitment to the community led him to launch Free Code Camp Philly – a space for individuals in Philadelphia to learn how to code together. Because once you start a new path, you can’t give up. Community support is key.

In conclusion, Daniel’s story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone considering a career change. Transforming your professional life is a marathon, not a sprint – stay focused, stay resilient, and most importantly, don’t ever give up.