Career of Computer Programming

Doe 1 John Doe Professor Jane Smith Academic Success 17 December 2009 A Career in Computer Programming Computer programming is a fascinating field that includes much problem solving and logical thinking, and without it the world of computers wouldn't exist today. From seemingly simple electronic devices like wristwatches and cell phones, to massive supercomputers used for weather modeling and protein folding simulations, computer programmers' contributions are significant in making these products and applications possible. Computer programming is basically micro-engineering a task for a computer to do, and it has evolved throughout the years since its inception with the earliest computers to the point that it is much easier to enter the field now than it has ever been. There are a few atypical traits that many programmers share: the propensity to value knowledge and sharing as the main indicator of social status, the desire to strive for perfection, being motivated intrinsically to learn, and the wish to know how everything works (Chan). These traits, together with employers' expectations, make many programming positions not require a degree or certificate to obtain, but instead, testing of knowledge is the prime factor in the hiring decision. Even so, most companies won't hire an entry-level programmer as a professional programmer, but as a technical support operator or software tester. It may take a year or more for an entry-level employee to prove themselves competent and move up the ranks to work as a programmer (Chan). Professional programmers must learn multiple computer languages (Dept. of Labor 126), which are akin to closely related human languages, because programmers are required to maintain and incorporate other people's code. Doing so prevents “reinventing the wheel” be creating methods for

Doe 2 computer programs that were already written. This reuse of code saves time for programmers to finish large projects much faster than they would be able to...