Embarking on a journey towards tech excellence is never straightforward. My experience at TIIDELab has been a thrilling rollercoaster of learning, challenges, and personal growth. Here’s a glimpse into my pre-fellowship journey.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Umunna Joseph. Growing up, my parents always wanted me to be a doctor, and for a while, I believed it was my destined path. However, everything changed when I got my first computer at the age of 12. That metal box sparked a fascination in me, and I knew then and there that tech was my true calling.
I studied Statistics at Michael Okapra University of Agriculture, Umudike, where I got a taste of Python through some basic programming courses. After graduating in 2023, I dove into learning JavaScript to broaden my skills. Then, I came across TIIDELab’s brochure, which focused on Python and AI. It felt like a twist of fate—was it destiny or what? You tell me.
The Application Process
The application for TIIDELab seemed pretty simple at first—just show off some basic tech skills and your enthusiasm for the field. I spent a lot of time fine-tuning my application, only to face a major setback when my computer broke down just before submission. After a bit of a scramble to fix it, I managed to get everything sent off just in time.
When I got accepted, I was super excited but also caught off guard. I had been gearing up for a JavaScript-focused program, but it turned out to be all about Python and AI. Initially, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the more I learned about the program’s focus, the more excited I became. I embraced the change and couldn’t wait to dive into Python and AI—this was exactly the kind of opportunity I needed.
Onboarding and Orientation
The onboarding process at TIIDELab was a breeze, thanks to a well-organized orientation program. From the start, everything was designed to ease us into the TIIDELab ecosystem smoothly. Meeting my fellow cohort members was a highlight—everyone seemed as passionate and driven as I was. It felt great to be surrounded by people who were equally excited about the journey ahead.
The orientation session was packed with valuable insights from seasoned experts, setting a high bar for the training to come. We were introduced to the core of what we’d be diving into and paired with mentors who were there to guide us through the program. It was clear from the beginning that this was going to be a challenging but rewarding experience, and I was ready to get started.
We were divided into 10 teams and paired with mentors who would guide us through the program. My teammates gave each other a warm welcome, and the camaraderie was pleasing. The positive energy and support from the team made me realize I was in the right place.
Projects and Assignments
One of the best parts of my pre-fellowship experience has been working on projects. After a week of live and recorded classes, we were kept on our toes with assignments after every class. We started with HTML and CSS, which was great for learning how to build modern web user interfaces. It was both challenging and rewarding, especially when it came time to create our portfolios. Crafting my portfolio was an interesting experience, as I had to ensure it passed all the necessary information about my work and skills.
In the second half of the fellowship, we shifted our focus to Python and AI. We were guided by experienced professionals from the ground up, starting with installation and setup, and moving on to basic operations and logical functions. The learning journey didn’t stop there, we also tackled integrating APIs and developing AI models. Each step expanded my skills and pushed my creativity, making the whole experience incredibly fulfilling.
For our final project, my team, Team 8, worked on a Tech Learning Path Prompt System. Using AI and Python, we created a system that provides personalized learning paths for users interested in tech, based on their interests. Seeing this project come to life was incredibly exciting, with everyone on the team fully engaged and contributing their best.
Weekly Development Sessions
TIIDELab’s weekly development sessions have been a cornerstone of our learning journey. These sessions not only dive into advanced coding techniques and the latest tech trends but also focus on essential real-world skills like teamwork, hard work, punctuality, and good corporate behavior. These are crucial skills that go beyond writing code and prepare us for success in any professional environment.
I’m particularly grateful to Mr. Aderoju Shamsudeen Adedapo, who has gone above and beyond to ensure that these development sessions are well-organized and beneficial. His commitment to our learning, often at the expense of his comfort, along with the support from other resource persons, has made a huge difference. I deeply appreciate their efforts—these sessions have significantly enhanced my understanding and growth in the tech field.
Another highlight was the party held on July 26, 2024. It was a fantastic opportunity to unwind, chill, and have fun with my fellow cohort members. The event showcased that TIIDELab is not just about intense learning but also about balancing work with enjoyment. The relaxed atmosphere and city vibe made it clear that TIIDELab believes in the “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” philosophy, ensuring we have a great time while learning.
Leadership
Yes, even I did not see this one coming. One of the standout moments during my time at TIIDELab was being appointed as class governor. Given that I’m naturally shy and introverted, the role felt a bit overwhelming at first. I’ve always tended to shy away from such responsibilities, knowing how demanding they can be. However, Mr. Aderoju Shamsudeen Adedapo encouraged me to see it as a valuable opportunity.
Taking on the role was a whole new experience for me. I had to become more selfless, focusing on solving my classmates' issues before my own and even setting aside some of my activities to fulfill my responsibilities. It was a challenging but rewarding experience. I also want to give a shoutout to my deputy, who stepped up admirably when I was unavoidably absent. Being part of such a supportive team underscored for me the importance of reliable team members and the power of effective teamwork.
Weekly Hangouts on X
Another fantastic aspect of TIIDELab is the weekly hangouts on X (formerly known as Twitter). These hangouts provide a platform for informal discussions, networking, and sharing experiences. It's a great way to unwind and connect with peers. The casual and friendly atmosphere makes these hangouts something to look forward to every week.
Challenges and Growth
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing the intensive coursework with personal commitments has been tough, and brushing up on Python has been one of my most significant hurdles. My Python skills are still pretty basic, and getting them up to speed has required a lot of extra effort. On top of that, power issues have occasionally thrown a wrench into my plans. To be honest, there were days when I just wanted to give up because of how tasking everything felt.
However, these challenges have only fueled my determination to succeed. Each obstacle has been a valuable learning opportunity, pushing me to find creative solutions and enhance my skills. I’m actively exploring ways to tackle these issues head-on. A big shoutout to my accountability partner and team members, whose encouragement kept me motivated to face these challenges and not give up. Every hurdle has contributed to my growth, both personally and professionally, and I’m committed to overcoming them and continuing on this exciting journey.
Networking and Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of TIIDELab is the community. The connections I’ve made here are invaluable, providing a network of support and collaboration. From study groups to tech meetups, the TIIDELab community is a vibrant space where ideas are exchanged, and lifelong friendships are formed.
Conclusion
My pre-fellowship experience at TIIDELab has been transformative. It has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a successful career in tech. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity and excited about the journey ahead.
If you’re considering a path in tech, TIIDELab is an excellent place to start. The experience is challenging but enriching, setting you toward excellence.