Extra Blog: alert("Hello world!");

This past month, I have worked with my mentor in learning the structure of LA County's Internal Services Department (ISD), the Financial Reporting System (FRS), and learning how to program in JavaScript. Learning about these things gives me assurance that it was a good decision for me to choose Computer Programming as my senior topic. I found that the work I did and the subjects I will, and have already, start studying are very interesting. I've always enjoyed using computers, applying logical thinking, and creating things that work, so there couldn't be a better choice than Computer Programming. 

Below are some pictures that represent what I have done so far.

The ISD Logo.

The book my mentor goes over with me to show me how to program in JavaScript.

As with learning any other language, I displayed a message saying the iconic "Hello world!" with the code:

alert("Hello world");

My current working EQ is "How can an individual become a successful computer programmer in the 21st century?" Through my research these past weeks and from my study of JavaScript, I have come up with several answers that I think approaches the best answer for my working EQ. The following are my current, possible answers:

• Having the end-goal in mind during programming
• Continually learning new skills/knowledge as technology changes
• Good communication/responsibility with those who work with you
• Have good code design/structure
• Dedication to learn/practice coding over a large period of time
• Enjoy Computer Programming 

At the moment, I feel that the answer, "Continually learning new skills/knowledge as technology changes," is the most reasonable and strongest answer out of the ones I have made so far. This is because my mentor is constantly,and thoroughly, learn new programming languages and apply them in the workplace. She said that being in the field of work is a "Life-time learning experience" and that one would need to study out side of the regular 8 hour work day. Companies and organizations, such as the Justice Service within the ISD that my mentor works in, who are based around the work of programmers often send their employees to classes to learn a variety of new subjects such as working efficiently or how to operate under a certain kind of system. In addition to classes, countless amounts of new programming books and internet articles are constantly being published with the specifics of the latest versions of programming languages and many instant messaging boards are constantly exchanging help to those have problems. Also, many times in programming, one can even copy and modify a program that someone else had made. This become a learning experience in itself of new information. 

TL;DR

This explanation can be summed up with something Clint Shank, a writer of technological subjects, once said:

"Technology changes fast. Don't get left behind."