From Zookeeper to Software Developer

Since I was a little girl I have always wanted to work with animals. I followed that passion by getting my Zoology degree and going into a specialized Zookeeping school(one of two in the country). This two year program not only prepared me to become an animal professional but it also prepared me with the ability to learn quickly and have pride in what I can accomplish, whether that be in a zookeeper setting or in a classroom.

Since that program I have worked with animals I never would have dreamed I could actually interact with as a little girl, including Grizzly Bears, Wolves, Lions, Porcupines, Kangaroos, and Seals. After getting injured on the job and having to undergo surgery, I realized I will not be able to do my dream job forever. While animals will always be a passion in my life, I learned a way to satisfy my love of learning and problem solving outside of having to wear khaki everyday. A friend of mine introduced me to a program she was going to and absolutely loved (Nashville Software School) I decided to take a leap of faith and signed up for their fundamental course to see if I would enjoy a very different style job. I absolutely fell in love and was itching to join the more intense program as soon as possible.

I will be graduating in January 2021 as a Full Stack Software Developer after learning Javascript, React, Python and Django, among many other skills and tools. Nashville Software School and the software community has opened the door for me to learn and grow. Everyday I learn something new and overcome a new challenge that, only a short while ago, I never thought I was capable of accomplishing. I am able to take my problem solving skills and my knack for patience, that I have been using in the animal world, and apply it to my new career as a Software Developer. I am excited and ready to branch out into the "real" world and to continue to learn and grow everyday.