Don't short change yourself, it sounds like you already have some fairly significant programming experience (assuming that's Ming's intro to web dev course and

Don't short change yourself, it sounds like you already have some fairly significant programming experience (assuming that's Ming's intro to web dev course and something with Professor Ramsey in there). > the shortest path from the position I am in to a job as a software developer Shortest path: apply straight to your first programming job or internship. There are many outfits out there that will take developers with no industry experience who have some practical programming ability. IMO, the best way to get better is to work alongside the best team you can. Specifically, if you're interested in web development in Boston: - ThoughtBot's apprenticeship http://www.apprentice.io/ http://www.apprentice.io/ - TripAdvisor's internship or web engineering program http://www.tripadvisor.com/careers/webprogram http://www.tripadvisor.com/careers/webprogram - Boston Startup Job Fair http://bostonstartupjobfair.com/ http://bostonstartupjobfair.com/ --or just apply to various jobs or internships at companies you know have good programmers. Worst case, you learn some things during your interviews and get to see the offices of some tech companies. Best case, you get a position and get to learn some stuff. If you're willing to throw down a few months' time and money, various dev bootcamp programs can practically guarantee you a developer position (and your courses sound like you would have a big head start). There are a couple in Boston, but more established ones in NYC and SF. If you'd like some help filling in the gaps for interviews or choosing places to apply to shoot me an email: my HN username at gmail. Went through the same process last year.