From Concrete to Code: My Journey into Software Development

When I first encountered a computer in middle school, I had no idea I was stepping into the magical world of software. I still vividly remember the excitement of writing my first scripts. From the day I installed and ran Linux for the first time, my computer has been my constant companion. Even as I dabbled in PHP and developed small applications during my high school years, I wasn't fully aware of how deeply software development had already influenced me.

Yet, life often takes us down unexpected paths. In 2015, when selecting my university major, perhaps influenced by external factors or simply making an unconscious choice, I enrolled in the Civil Engineering program at Dokuz Eylül University. Initially, I thought I might grow to enjoy it, but from the very first weeks, I felt profoundly out of place. I never developed a passion for my studies; classes, projects, and exams felt burdensome. The only truly valuable experiences during university came from the social clubs and activities I joined.

University took longer than planned, lasting 5.5 years until my graduation in February 2021. Immediately after, I started working at a gold partner of Autodesk. Although professional life initially seemed attractive, a persistent inner voice told me something wasn't right.

Then one Wednesday morning, I made a spontaneous decision and resigned, marking a significant turning point in my life. After a brief period of rest, I founded my own engineering company, establishing the brand "Kuray Yapı," designing its logo, securing a brand patent, and carving my entrepreneurial path. I actively engaged in structural engineering projects, interior architectural design, and urban transformation initiatives, including the assessment of risky structures.

However, throughout this entire journey, my passion for software never faded. In 2023, during my compulsory military service, I deeply reconsidered my life over a month. Returning home, in July 2023, I made the boldest decision of my life: to completely abandon engineering and pursue software development. I believed strongly in the notion that "people with backup plans don't explore new paths," and thus, I boldly announced the closure of my company, shut down my website, and openly shared this decisive change with everyone around me. For me, it was all or nothing.

I committed myself with rigorous discipline to developing my software skills. Starting each day at 7 AM, I worked tirelessly at a café near my home until 8 PM, pausing only briefly for dinner before resuming work until bedtime. From July 2023 to February 2024, I maintained this intense routine without skipping a single day.

During this period, I thoroughly researched the software industry's needs and expectations, sharing my insights through my blog:

• 9 Essential Skills for Software Developer Interns - January 2025 Edition

• 5 Essential Skills for Software Developer Interns - February 2025 Edition

These posts served as both personal guides and resources for others. Armed with this knowledge, I created a professional and impressive portfolio website (kuray.dev) and meticulously crafted a CV tailored to industry standards.

By February 2024, feeling fully prepared, I began actively seeking employment. Now, nearly two years into my career as a software developer, I continue to dedicate my time to studying and developing projects even after work hours, constantly striving to improve myself. This courageous and determined journey taught me the profound value of taking risks, pursuing passions, and genuinely believing in oneself.

Looking back now, I see clearly that this radical shift was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've found fulfillment in software development and now wake up excited every morning, knowing life truly rewards those brave enough to follow their passions.