Helping out in the Coder Hack Space at Career Zoo in Dublin, Python Ireland treasurer Vicky Twomey-Lee spoke to Siliconrepublic.com about the different options out there for tomorrow’s programmers.
Indeed software enthusiasts flocked to Dublin’s Convention Centre last weekend for Career Zoo, with the new dedicated programmer area offering advice to those looking to get into coding of any variety. Numerous peer groups were present to lend some advice.
Programming languages such as Python, Java, Clojure, Ruby, .NET, F# and C++ were represented, with groups such as Python Ireland, Ruby Ireland, Clojure Ireland and Dublin R – covering open data – there to guide people in the right direction.
“We’re trying to represent our grassroots community,” said Twomey-Lee.
“We want to show that there is a whole user group out there. It’s a great way to network and find like-minded people. For us in Python Ireland it’s how we started. We looked for people with similar interests.”
Graduates need to show their interest in side projects, Twomey-Lee said, with this enthusiasm often key to gaining employment once you finish your college course.
“That shows outside interest, as opposed to just theory from colleges. I would love to see more colleges teach students and encourage them to pursue technologies that are quite new and not be afraid to try them out. Not just stick to the main staple in recent years, like Java.”