Aspergers: Why Programming?

I know, I know... the stereotype of the Aspie programmer is a hard one to bear for ASD folk not inclined to computers. However, there are three reasons that I want you to consider regarding programming:

1. A level of oddity is expected from programmers in general making things easier for the behaviors that might hold you back in other jobs
2. Scarcity is the rule for programmers so jobs are easier to come by, with less competition and more opportunity
3. Pay is generally better than average

I know it is hard for some of us to overcome the barrier of doing something we do not love but think of it as supporting yourself to do what you really want to do. And if comes down to it would you rather sling coffee or create things?

It can be a daunting task to learn the languages on your own. Google is an extremely useful tool when you combine the name of the programming language and 'tutorial' in the search. And open source projects offer an ability to hone your skills along with more experience programmers.

However, I found a more interactive form of learning recently on Reddit and Stackoverfow. Stack overflow is straight forward, enter your question and check back for answers or search for someone else who had the same question. Reddit has some sub-reddits (i.e. sub-categories) like Learn Programming, Learning Programming Resources and Programming. Due to the voting nature of the site useful content rises to the top and with so many people answering questions you gain the help offered by Stack Overflow.

Learning and creating your own web applications

I have noticed that some ASD folk think you need special education or a degree in Computer Science to learn programming. In reality there are alternatives. The web is rife with tutorials on how to learn various programming languages and where to go to get free tools to build them. Keep in mind that you will be judged on what you produce as much as how you produce it. Some programming shops are sticklers for knowing and operating with the theoretical frameworks taught in school. These too can be learned and used outside of a classroom environment (start with Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software) and then look for articles and blogs on the web that mention design patterns.

If you are partial towards Microsoft, or looking for a place to start check out this article from Geeks in Phoenix: http://www.geeksinphoenix.com/blog/post/2011/06/25/Creating-web-apps-and-websites-for-free-with-Microsoft-Web-Platform.aspx. It gives a general overview of what is available from Microsoft to give you a leg up in your quest to learn more and show off what you can do.

Add your projects into your career portfolio and mention them on your LinkedIn account, web site and resume. It will show ambition and self learning; two items that are prized by employers everywhere.