Stella Kariuki: From Accountant to Front-end developer
Stella Kariuki sat down with Joy Atieno, the host of the Faces of ALX SE show, for a chat where she shared how the ALX 6-month Front-end web development program was a game-changer in her path to tech.
Joy: Let’s start with a quick introduction. Tell us a bit about yourself and what drew you to ALX.
Stella: Sure! My name is Stella Kariuki. I’m an ALX learner currently enrolled in the Front-End Developer program. Before this, I was actually an accountant, but last year, I got really interested in tech, especially building apps and websites. So, I started learning on my own through online resources like FreeCodeCamp and W3Schools, but I soon realized I wanted a community and a more structured program, which I found with ALX at the start of 2024.
Joy: That’s amazing! There’s often a misconception that tech is especially tough for women. Did this journey come naturally for you? Or was it something you had to work up to?
Stella: I believe tech is for everyone! I didn’t have a tech background—I was in accounting, after all. But once I got interested in building things, I dove right in. I was self-learning until I saw an ALX ad on YouTube. That led me to look deeper into their programs, and I ended up applying for the Front-End course.
Joy: Love it! Part of joining ALX means paying for the program. Did you feel confident about investing in yourself this way?
Stella: Definitely! ALX offers a lot of value, especially with its sponsorship and the way they structure the program. You gain so much, from foundational knowledge to soft skills. So, it wasn’t hard to decide; I knew I’d be getting great value.
Joy: Speaking of foundations, you start with an eight-week Foundation Program before diving into front-end coding. Was that surprising for you?
Stella: Yes, actually! I expected to jump right into HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, but the foundation program really prepared me with essential skills. It taught me to research and learn independently, which is crucial in tech.
Joy: And then you got into the Front-End program! How did that go? What did you learn, and was it what you expected?
Stella: It was everything I expected and more. I’d already taught myself some basics like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, but ALX introduced me to new tools and deeper concepts, like using APIs, Git and GitHub, and testing code. It’s challenging, but the program is eye-opening.
Joy: I hear that! The learning never stops, does it? Was there any support that helped you along the way?
Stella: Absolutely. The ALX community is fantastic, and our mentors, like Andrew and Alfred, were always there to help. I also connected with like-minded learners, which made a big difference.
Joy: Now you’re wrapping up with your capstone project. What are you building?
Stella: I’m creating a weather dashboard using React and Tailwind CSS. I had built a simpler one before, but this one includes advanced features like seven-day forecasts, humidity, and wind speed. It’s been a great challenge!
Joy: Amazing work! Do you see a way to merge your accounting background with front-end development?
Stella: Not really—I’m all-in on front-end development now. But tech is a journey; who knows where it might lead?
Joy: So true! Any final words of advice for those considering a journey in tech or ALX?
Stella: My advice is simple: believe in yourself. You’re capable of whatever you set your mind to. The journey won’t be easy, but go all-in and stay dedicated. Tech is demanding, but with the right attitude, you’ll succeed!
Joy: Thank you, Stella, for sharing your journey. It’s been inspiring!
To keep in touch with Stella, kindly contact her on X and LinkedIn.