My Journey In Tech Part II: The Bumpy Road

It’s been a minute since I last posted anything here, and wow, so much has happened since then.

Two years ago, I tied the knot. It’s been quite the journey, to say the least. Like many folks navigating relationships, I’ve had to make some compromises—some of which have really tested my sense of self. Rebuilding from that has been a quiet, ongoing journey.

On the professional front, I’m still trying to find my groove. As someone who’s neurodivergent, working in the tech world has its own set of challenges. I graduated with a Computer Science degree back in 2017, and while many people today argue that degrees aren’t everything (especially in tech), there’s a significant cultural context to consider.

In Nigeria, having a degree is still a big deal—it’s often seen as a key marker of credibility and worth, especially by the older generation. Plus, there’s the NYSC, the mandatory National Youth Service Corps for graduates. Unfortunately, I couldn’t participate in NYSC due to some complications with my online university program. The officials told me there were no provisions for my situation.

Since then, I’ve spent years trying to carve out my path—applying for jobs both locally and remotely, but with little luck. The absence of NYSC certification has been a major roadblock, especially with Nigerian companies that often prioritize hiring corps members. But I haven’t given up.

Recently, I decided to pivot into digital marketing. I applied for a Marketing Executive Assistant position, thinking it might be a better fit if product management didn’t pan out. I went through the interview, followed up with an email, but then… crickets. The silence can be disheartening, but it’s not something I’m unfamiliar with.

Rejection sensitivity is a real thing, and some days are definitely tougher than others. But I’m still here. Still trying. Still learning.

If you’ve been in a similar situation or have any practical advice—whether it’s about career navigation or emotional resilience—I’d love to hear from you. I’ve dabbled in coding, writing, and exploring various paths. I’m not throwing in the towel; I’m just on the lookout for a door that will finally open.