DIY the dream: the self-taught guide
I’m sitting in my LA apartment, reflecting on how I got here.
How did I become a black woman in tech when my mom told me it would be beneficial to become a doctor?
It might have all started when I decided to pursue a minor degree in Information Science and Technology out of curiosity, finding spare time after switching my major from Biology to Public Health—a 10 out of 10, would recommend the pivot.
That decision was made 12 years ago. Since then, I've navigated through four different roles, worked at three tech companies, ranging from 65,000 employees to 3,000, marking a DIY journey that cost me $0.00 USD.
Today, I introduce myself as a UX Researcher or a cool tech girl, if you know me from TikTok.
I've heard that nowadays, not many people admit to dreaming about work, but growing up in my Nigerian household instilled a deep appreciation for the value of work. Consequently, I held a clear vision for my dream job.
Back in college, I could envision the adult version of myself striding into a corner office with that boss babe energy (Miranda Priestly vibes, but friendlier) or elegantly navigating corporate hallways in a monochromatic suit, channeling my best impression of Jessica Pearson.
In essence, my aspiration was clear — regardless of the professional path I pursued, I was determined to look good while doing it.
However, somewhere along the way, I traded in that dream for a vision that shifted my focus—less on what I wore and more on what my brain could create.
📓 Entering the Unconventional Classroom.
After graduating college with a Public Health degree, I found myself navigating the complexities of the financial world — still blows my mind that this was my debut in the corporate landscape. I ended up at a mutual funds company, trading securities and feeling like I stepped onto the set of 'The Wolf of Wall Street' on occasion.
A prerequisite for working there was obtaining two securities licenses: series 7 and series 63.
So, naturally, I did what any new grad would do—I became a student all over again and crafted a learning curriculum (actual footage of me in class below). Swiftly enrolling in YouTube University, the GOAT for all things learning since the early 2000s.
It played a crucial role in helping me build the foundation needed to ace those exams, and secure my job.
Fast forward to my pivot into tech as a UX researcher, and the learning journey seamlessly continued. Embracing a similar strategy, I expanded the curriculum to include LinkedIn learning courses and books, immersing myself in UX research communities on Facebook and Slack. These unconventional classrooms became the spaces where I not only honed my skills but also expanded my knowledge.
It's giving college, minus the tuition.
📃 The Self-Taught Guide for Nontraditional Paths
Today, I find myself working alongside colleagues with impressive credentials – PhDs and master's degrees galore – and I wholeheartedly applaud their achievements. Yet, it's crucial to acknowledge that we all arrived at this destination via two distinctly unique journeys, each offering something valuable. So, if you ever grapple with imposter syndrome, consider this video a lifeline.
And to those just embarking on this journey, hear this loud and clear: the self-taught babes do it better, period.
Here are the top tips that fueled my own journey:
Be a Sponge: Soak in the wisdom, whether it's absorbed through reading, watching, or listening. Make it a habit, meditate on it. Here's a curated list of books, podcasts, and videos that fueled my exploration into UX Research during my first year.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Knowledge is a mere echo without action. Seek opportunities to put what you've learned into practice, honing your craft. Look for nonprofits seeking volunteers or tech startups eager for your expertise.
Strength in Numbers: Doing it alone is possible, but doing it with others is best. The power is in the community. Don't shy away from seeking help. Here's a list of communities where you can actively contribute to meaningful conversations. LinkedIn, too, is an invaluable resource for connecting with like-minded professionals.
My hope is that these insights guide and embolden you on your self-taught journey. You've got this – keep going💪🏾!
〰T.
