The first question I get in interviews is “Why?” And their question is valid as I have two degrees: English and Computer Science. So why did I do it?

I graduated in 2001 from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with my English degree. I planned on teaching English originally, however I decided it wasn’t my calling and moved on. However, it’s difficult to find a job with an English degree when you don’t want to teach. So a year after graduating, I went back to school for another degree.

While the jump to Computer Science seems a bit like educational suicide, I really enjoyed math growing up and loved learning about technology. With a desire to solve puzzles and think up solutions to existing problems, I found Computer Science to be a great fit. And I love it!

I don’t consider myself an expert in any of my rants, however I find there is a large community who wants to learn and understand programming. And that’s great! I’m in that boat too!

I want there to be a friendly way to communicate about the concepts and details that don’t make sense. While there are many experienced programmers who know an API inside and out, I find that sometimes the beginner questions are pushed aside and met with a haughty guffaw. Hopefully I can share some of my beginner mistakes and discoveries to help others along the way. So keep a drink nearby, and let’s start discovering new exciting concepts!