Vlog: job status update + Clojure future
Raw link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44b1RBIwH4M
In this video I explain what has transpired since my last vlog entry, which was my public plea for help in finding a job:
- I have a short-term project to work on. It is related to Emacs. I will publish more about it in the near future on my website’s coding blog section.
- This small job pays some money that I will use for the next few weeks. It gives me a modicum of stability.
- I also received some donations. Again, they provide some immediate relief.
- The underlying problem is the same: I need a job and I will have to relocate. But now I am not desperate to accept the first offer that comes my way.
- I do not want to adopt a decision about my future under extreme duress. It has to be something I will not regret.
- I started learning Clojure and I explain why I picked it over Python, JavaScript, Ruby, and Common Lisp. In short: (i) there is sufficient demand for it, (ii) it provides a Lisp conduit to the worlds of Java and JavaScript, (iii) the members of the community who contacted me are very passionate about this language, which excites me.
- I think Clojure has this Emacs-y quality where the members of its community care about the qualitative aspects of their craft. At least based on the feedback I received.
- I am reading books and am setting up Emacs with
clojure-mode
andcider
. The plan is to start writing real code, like toy programs, which will help me understand how things work in practice. - I explain what I learnt about my CV and how the tech industry does not care so much about formal qualifications. I still rely on the human factor though.
- Brief comment on all the messages I have received and how I am still replying to each of them. It takes time.
- Some words about offers I cannot accept.
- Closing thoughts with a philosophical point about not relying on appearances.