Re: Expanding my skillset
Download your favorite 'flavor' of Visual Studio Net Express series, in 5 languages. They're free!
Re: Expanding my skillset
Also, if you want to get into web work, you will need to master both a client-side and a server-side language. I would highly suggest the combination of HTML, JavaScript, and PHP. Then you can use PHP to interface with databases (MySQL, SQL, Oracle, etc.).
W3Schools is the best all-in-one resource for web programming.
PHP.net is your #1 stop for language documentation.
MySQL.com will help to learn commands for the database.
XAMPP is an all-in-one install for apache web server with PHP and MySQL.
Re: Expanding my skillset
That's good advice.
I've purchased some books on MySQL, Java, and PHP. I've found, however, that while reading up on PHP or Java in a book or online is helpful, nothing can replace hands on experience.
What is the best way to apply what I'm learning in a way that is meaningful to potential employers? Should I just dream up spare-time projects to work on?
It is tough to come home at night after programming at work for 9 hours and then program some more, but I'm willing to do it. I just want my efforts to go into something that I can use to demonstrate my skill when applying for a job.
Thanks again.
Re: Expanding my skillset
Quote:
Originally Posted by svalmont
...nothing can replace hands on experience.
That is true with anything in life, not just programming!
Quote:
Originally Posted by svalmont
What is the best way to apply what I'm learning in a way that is meaningful to potential employers? Should I just dream up spare-time projects to work on?
Well, you need a portfolio base to get you started. Dreaming does some good, but employers want to see how the dreams come to life!!!
Re: Expanding my skillset
Quote:
Well, you need a portfolio base to get you started. Dreaming does some good, but employers want to see how the dreams come to life!!!
Any tips on where to find projects to work on to build a portfolio? Should I start contributing to open-source projects on sourceforge.net maybe?
Re: Expanding my skillset
Sourceforge is an amazing resource. I would pick a number of those projects and create your own versions. Remember to focus on security!
Re: Expanding my skillset
It is also good to think of something you enjoy, I know a guy interested in physics simulations so outside of work he creates java based gravity simulations and such. Thinking of something you enjoy, thinking what program you might be able to make surrounding the subject and creating it is a good way to start and expand a portfolio in any language.