From Biology to Software Engineering

Back in my undergraduate days, I was deep into Biology, fascinated by the complexities of life. But as graduation approached, I started to wonder: Is this really the path for me? Don’t get me wrong—I loved the science, but the career prospects didn’t feel as exciting as I’d hoped.

Then, in 2013, something unexpected happened. The mobile gaming industry exploded, and suddenly, everyone was glued to their smartphones. One game, in particular, caught my attention: Flappy Bird. It was simple, addictive, and oddly inspiring. I remember thinking, Could I make something like this?

Spoiler alert: I had no idea how to code. My background was in Biology, not computer science. But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to dive headfirst into the world of software engineering.

Learning to code felt like learning a new language—one that was completely foreign to me. But I quickly realized that programming wasn’t so different from biology. Both require logical thinking, problem-solving, and a lot of patience. I started small, dissecting Flappy Bird’s mechanics and trying to recreate it. It was messy, frustrating, and incredibly rewarding.

As I got more comfortable with coding, I began to explore other areas: augmented reality, machine learning, and mobile app development. Each new skill felt like unlocking a superpower. And while I still had moments of self-doubt (hello, imposter syndrome!), I kept pushing forward.

Looking back, I’m amazed at how far I’ve come. My biology background didn’t hold me back—it gave me a unique perspective. The attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills I developed in the lab turned out to be just as valuable in tech.

Today, I’m a software engineer who loves building things that matter. My journey from petri dishes to keyboard and monitor has taught me that it’s never too late to try something new. Whether it’s biology or code, the key is to stay curious, embrace challenges, and keep learning.

So, if you’re thinking about making a big career change, take it from me: the unconventional path might just lead you somewhere amazing.

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