Gain XP: Learn By Doing

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The title of today's post comes from my friend, who suggested I should "read less and do more".


As we start a new month and a new year, I think it is a great time to reintroduce the idea of gaining experience by implementing what you have learnt. 

Recent graduates often face a catch-22 scenario: the need for experience to secure a job, yet lacking the experience to begin with.

Frequently, we attribute this "scarcity of opportunities" to external factors beyond our control, such as the economy and nepotism.

However, every day is a new opportunity to concentrate on what you can influence and take action!

I would have mentioned how to go about selecting a project in a previous post.

Today, I'll be expanding upon what you should be doing to learn and gain experience while searching for a job in Technology:

Form a Study Group

Invite your friends to join you on your learning journey; it's more enriching than reading or watching YouTube videos by yourself. Explaining concepts to others or discussing problems can deepen your understanding and reinforce learning.

Participate in Competitions

Engage in hackathons and competitions that not only challenge your skills but also provide opportunities to learn from peers and experts in your field. It is best if you can attend these events in-person.

Find the Connection

Explore how coding intersects with subjects like mathematics, natural sciences, arts, or social sciences. This interdisciplinary approach can offer new perspectives and creative solutions.

Reflect on Progress

Reflect on your learning process. Consider what works well, what doesn’t, and why. Document your progress, challenges faced, and lessons learned. Regularly review and refine your approach based on these reflections.

Resources

Kaggle Competitions
Tech Trends 2024

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