Lessons as an Intern

In the spring of 2021, I embarked on the first chapter of my professional journey with an internship at Allucent, a construction scheduling software company. I was eager to dive into the world of modern frameworks and libraries and was delighted to have the opportunity to learn and work with Vue.js. Having previously only worked with HTML, CSS, and vanilla JavaScript, Vue.js was a refreshing change of pace.

During my time at Allucent, I was lucky enough to pair program with a former Navy EOD operator turned web developer named Chris. Working alongside someone with his expertise and experience was truly invaluable, and we were tasked with creating a page for users to learn about the construction scheduling workflow and access tutorials and articles on how to use the software.

Here are some of the lessons I learned during my time at Allucent:

Pair Programming

While opinions on pair programming can vary, I personally believe it is an excellent tool for learning and collaboration, especially when starting out. Two minds are better than one, and working together can help you find solutions and overcome obstacles more quickly. However, as your experience grows, it may not be the most effective way of working.

Ask Questions

The most important thing to remember when surrounded by experienced programmers is to never be afraid to ask questions. Utilize resources like Stack Overflow, documentation, and AI (such as ChatGPT) to find answers, but don't be overwhelmed if you can't seem to get past an issue. When all else fails, reach out to your mentor, manager, team lead, or any other experienced programmer for guidance. They may be able to offer a new perspective that helps you overcome the problem.

While at Allucent, Chris and I did just that. We tried as hard as we could to solve our problems together, but when it seemed hopeless we approached one of the developers who was able to take some time to help us out. Once we got his help and he explained things from a new perspective, we were able to propel the work forward!

Imposter Syndrome

It's normal to feel like an opportunity may be too good to be true, but remember that you were offered the job for a reason. You bring unique skills and qualities to the table, even if they may not be technical skills. Your communication, teamwork, and willingness to learn make you a valuable asset to any team and will ultimately help you succeed in your role.

In conclusion, my internship at Allucent provided me with invaluable lessons and experiences that I will carry with me throughout my professional journey. Pair programming, asking questions, and overcoming imposter syndrome are all key takeaways from my time at the company. Overall, I am confident that the skills and knowledge I gained at Allucent will serve me well as I continue in my career in the tech industry.