From Android Testing to Backend Development: Charting My Career Path Post-Outreachy

Introduction

As I approach the midpoint of my Outreachy internship with ODK-X, I reflect on the valuable experiences I have gained and look ahead to my future career path. This internship has been a transformative journey, allowing me to dive deep into Android testing and contribute meaningfully to open-source software. Now, it is time to explore how I can leverage this experience to shape my career in software development, particularly in backend engineering with Java.

Current Project

For those new to my journey, I have been developing and executing tests for ODK-X Android tools, ensuring the reliability and functionality of the Survey, Tables, and Services apps. Over the past six weeks, I have honed my skills in test automation, debugging, and navigating a complex codebase. These experiences have solidified my technical skills and highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in software development.

My Career Aspirations

Upon completing my Outreachy internship, I am eager to pursue a full-time position in software development, with a primary focus on backend development using Java. While my current internship centers on Android testing, I see this as a stepping stone towards my goal of becoming a proficient backend developer. I will be available to start work immediately after my internship ends in August 2024. Given my positive experience working remotely with ODK-X and my previous remote contract positions, I am particularly interested in remote opportunities, though I am open to relocating for the right position.

Areas of Interest

My work with ODK-X, combined with my previous experiences, has solidified my passion for backend development. I'm excited about opportunities that allow me to:

Contribute to backend systems using Java and frameworks like Spring Boot
Implement and improve testing strategies for both mobile and backend applications
Work on scalable, distributed systems
Continue engaging with open-source communities

Skills and Tools

Through my internship and previous roles, I have developed a diverse skill set:

Java programming (for both Android and Backend)
Kotlin
Spring Boot and Dropwizard frameworks
Android app testing using tools like Espresso
Database management with MySQL and PostgreSQL
Version control with Git
Containerization with Docker
Build tools like Maven and Bazel
Cloud platforms (GCP)

I am eager to further develop these skills and expand my knowledge in areas such as:

Advanced backend architectures and design patterns
Data Structures and Algorithms
Microservices and API design
Performance optimization for backend systems
DevOps practices and tools

Bridging Android Testing to Backend Development

While my Outreachy internship focuses on Android testing, the skills I am gaining are highly transferable to backend development

Testing Methodologies: The principles of writing effective test cases, test-driven development, and ensuring code quality are universal across different areas of software development.
Java Proficiency: Android development has strengthened my Java skills, which directly applies to backend development.
Understanding of Mobile-Backend Interaction: My experience with Android gives me insight into how mobile apps interact with backend services, valuable for designing effective APIs.
Debugging and Problem-Solving: The challenges I have faced in Android testing have honed my debugging skills, crucial for backend development.

Unique Perspectives and Interpersonal Skills

As an Outreachy intern with a background in Computer Engineering, I bring a fresh perspective to software development teams. My experiences, combined with my remote work for different organizations, allow me to approach problems from a unique, global angle. I pride myself on being a collaborative team member, with strong communication skills honed through remote work and leadership roles in university organizations.
Languages: I am fluent in English and Igbo.

Availability and Work Preferences

I will be available to start full-time work immediately after my Outreachy internship ends.
I am primarily looking for remote, full-time paid positions, but I am open to relocation for the right opportunity.
I am also open to contract positions, having previous experience in that regard

Call to Action
I am excited to connect with professionals in the backend development field, particularly those working with Java and Spring Boot. If you know of opportunities that align with my skills and career goals, or if you'd like to discuss potential collaborations, please reach out to me on LinkedIn or via email at ihediohachinedu21@gmail.com.

Conclusion

As I look to the future, I am filled with excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead in my pursuit as a backend engineer. The skills, experiences, and connections I have gained and still gaining through my Outreachy internship with ODK-X, combined with my previous roles, have set a strong foundation for my career in software development. I am grateful for these experiences and eager to take on new challenges in the world of backend engineering and beyond.