I’ve never been more inadvertently proud of myself

Listen I need you guys to understand I come from a really small place and while I was given a good education I always felt behind once college started. I dropped out during the pandemic but I did learn that I enjoyed tech and decided to pursue that. The journey has been long and honestly painful. I still have so much imposter syndrome that I never truly feel like a programmer even though I have projects to show for it.

Anyways, when I lived in Chicago I was able score a really solid job. Good salary, benefits and in tech (broad sense). Now what I did not know due to my lack of education and friends in the industry was that IT has levels like L1-L3. When I landed this job I was VERY well aware I was under qualified. Entirely so. I was shocked I even got in the building but they liked my vibes so yay.

Everyday was an actual struggle but I would study my ass off. I read every knowledge article and created some for others, I watched YouTube videos and abused ChatGPT. Somehow I actually managed to do a really good job and everyone was impressed with my work. I left the job for personal reasons with my family but if I hadn’t I’m sure I’d still be there.

Now to why I’m really proud. I just started a new job after 2 years of being out of tech and my team lead literally told me I’m overqualified. He explained that I started off at L3 and the position I’m in now is L1 so I have gone above and beyond to have all the necessary skills I’d need. He’s already telling me how to get promotions and how to take advantage of our work schedule because I will have SO MUCH DOWNTIME.

I can go back to school! I can focus on coding! I can pursue personal projects! All because 2 years ago I charmed my way into a corporate office, busted my ass in fear of being found out as a fraud and never gave up on my goals. I love myself.