Yesterday, Janco tagged me in Michael Eaton's software development meme that's been flying around recently. I read most of the stories around, specially Dave, Matt and Janco stories. So below is my simple story.
How old were you when you started programming?
I was 19 or 20 I don't remember exactly, but it was in 1999. That was when I joined the college, Faculty of Computers and Information Sciences. Before that I never worked on a PC or even had one. So I wasn't a video game player either.
How did you get started in programming?
I joined Computers and Information Sciences because I wished to be a software engineer. So, my early steps were very academic; Lectures, classes and labs where we practice basic of programming.
What was your first language?
C++, that was my first language when I do not use currently!! Shame on me!
What was the first real program you wrote?
I don't actually remember, but I am sure it was with C++. And pretty sure it was an assignment, and not something I invented. So basically some simple data access application or some algorithm related application or may data structure.
What languages have you used since?
I started with C++, then ASP3 VBScript, JavaScript, assembly, Java, C# and VB.Net.
What was your first professional programming gig?
That was during college time in summer 2001. I wasn't at the beginning a developer, but later I became an ASP3 Classic developer. Along with HTML, XML and CSS developer. I was working for Erkel Associates when they used to have an office in Cairo.
If you knew then what you know now?
I would choose the same path. For many reasons, some of them related to how life goes in Egypt, and the other related that it is a profession that combine between fun, think, engineering and money. And it is full of sub paths that someone can follow, and still, have the fun. And I should quote Matt when he said "I blog for fun, but work to pay the bills" yes that's me too. I used to write since 2002 on csharpfriends.com.
What is the one thing you would tell new developers?
Learn form your leaders, practice and improve your skills then participate effectively. If you are good, then there are someone who is greater than you. If you are professional, then know there are experts around you. If you are expert, then you don't need to think, because you know! Act as you supposed to be titled.
What’s the most fun you’ve ever had … programming?
When I see my effect on my team, sharing successful moments with them. Solving business challenges, inventing solutions. Writing and blogging. Learning from those who blog and get inspired with something new. I do blog because it teach and help me first before it might help others.
The End
That was the end of my story, very simple, and basic one. Thank you Janco for tagging me! You guys extracting fun out of the community. I guess my turn for tagging, and I tag Amr Elsehemy.