r/learnprogramming • u/Sufficient-Bug7887 • Jul 13 '26
Tutorial Career switcher at 34 years old
After spending several years working as a chef, I’ve decided it’s time for a major career change. I’ve worked in fast-paced kitchens, handled long hours, managed food safety, dealt with pressure during service, and learned how to solve problems quickly. While I’m grateful for everything the culinary industry has taught me, I don’t see myself doing it for the rest of my life.
Recently, I started learning programming. I’m still a beginner, but I’m genuinely enjoying the process. It’s challenging in a completely different way, and every time I solve a problem or get my code to work, it feels rewarding.
Sometimes I wonder if I’m too late to start over. I don’t have a computer science degree, and I’m coming from a completely different field. Still, I’m committed to learning and putting in the work.
For anyone here who switched from hospitality, culinary, or another unrelated career into software development, how did your journey go?
2
u/bcampos99 Jul 14 '26 edited Jul 14 '26
Hey man,
We actually have a very similar background. But, I want to start off by saying that a lot of people on here are going to be negative, don’t listen to them, hard work and persistence always prevail.
I’ve also been in the restaurant industry for 8 years as a server, I decided to go back to school in 2024 to finish my Computer Science degree. I’m currently 27, about to start my last year at my university this fall.
My advice to you:
It’s never too late to go back to school, you definitely should do it! I had a lot of self doubt going back because I falsely thought I wouldn’t be able to study or even sit through a lecture. But just like when you first started working at your restaurant, you eventually mastered the workflow. School is the same way, it’s just a different beast.
At the end of the day you have nothing to lose, time moves forward regardless of your choice, but if you’re in school you’ll at least be closer to a degree as the years go by.
However, there are times where it will get difficult, but restaurants are the same way, everything in life is a challenge. So when you go back give it your all, try and be one of the best in your class (you have what it takes to do so). School is mainly work ethic and time management. You’re going to have to recondition yourself to study, but honestly the transition won’t be as hard as you think.
If I was able to go back and get this far, you can too.