mipnix

I was a professional pilot for fifteen years then lost my job 18 months ago. The market is horrible and I decided to pursue a career in programming.

I was accepted to the IIT master's program but I can't afford it and don't know if taking four years to do it part time will help me with my current predicament.

I have completed training in C++ and Java at a community college but that doesn't say much. I don't know what I don't know and want to learn.

I am not a wizard, ninja or a gnome. I am a fairly bright guy trying to figure this out but I need help in learning best practices and how this world I have chosen to enter, operates. How do I gain practical experience? The age old question...

I have joined two user groups but to date they have proved lacking for myriad reasons.

Craigslist didn't seem like the best place to look for a mentor so if anyone has any suggestions I will be in your debt.

Kind regards.

Long time listener. First time caller...

After a fifteen year career as a pilot, I lost my job last year and can't find another one. I went back to school and am taking C++ and intro to databases and everything else I can get my hands on, in order to catch up.

I have no background in technology or business, basically a pilots license with a pretty degree attached to it. Nothing applicable to the real world. For all intents and purposes, I am starting from square one and trying to make my way as a programmer. After eight months, I don't feel I know how to actually program anything.

Entry level jobs are looking for 1-2 years of programming experience and mentors are hard to find.

Am I blowing this out of proportion? Does anyone recall what it was like when they started out? I mean really started out?

Thanks.

Edit: Thank you for all the comments. You lose sight of the big picture from ground level. Just need to stay the course.