There is a lucrative market for English speaking students who can type fast and accurately. Many large online platforms, such as Google Docs, offer a chance for young people to gain valuable digital skills while making money online. But how can a 14-year-old get started in a career in information technology (IT) or data science?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to take before, during, and after your digital journey to see if this is the right path for you.
The Skill Set You Need To Have
If you want to make it in the growing field of data science and IT, you’ll need to possess a few crucial skills. These include:
- Informatics (the study of information);
- Computers (including hardware and software);
- Mathematics;
- Programming (including Java, Python, and R);
- Technical writing (also referred to as communication skills, or writing for computers).
The ability to locate relevant information quickly and efficiently is crucial. You’ll need to be able to search through multiple channels quickly and accurately to find your desired results. You can also expect to do a lot of communicating with clients and supporting staff via email, chat, or phone calls. Finally, you’ll need to be able to present your findings in a concise and logical manner.
If you’re passionate about IT and data science, you may want to consider pursuing a career in these areas. But be mindful of the competition. Like any other industry, there is a lot of unemployment in the field. But with all the new opportunities presenting themselves online, there is also a lot of jobs for young people. All you need is a computer and an internet connection to get started.
Get The Best Education You Can
If you’re lucky enough to be born into a family who can afford it, get ready to graduate from high school with a brand new laptop in tow. Many companies will provide you with one for free or with subsidized college materials. But even if your family can’t afford new school equipment, there are plenty of scholarships out there that can help.
The earlier you start, the better. While you’re still at school, focus on acquiring as much knowledge as you can. Attend extra classes if necessary, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Many good schools now offer evening classes, which you can take advantage of to improve your knowledge even more.
In addition to academics, get involved in extra-curricular activities. This can help you make connections that could lead to future employments. In the meantime, get ready to enter the workforce as a trained professional.
Look For A Mentor
While you’re still at school, look for a mentor in your subject matter. A mentor can be an experienced professional who has chosen to share their knowledge and expertise with you. A mentor can give you valuable feedback on your work, and help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. With a mentor, you can also expect to grow as a person. Learning from someone who has been in the workforce more times than you probably ever will be able to achieve in your lifetime can only help you become a better professional.
After Graduation
Depending on your chosen field, you may or may not need to go to college after graduation. For those heading to the workforce, a certification can prove invaluable in increasing your employability. An English certification will make you more desirable to companies that value English speaking skills. A certification in IT or data science can prove that you are capable of taking on technical responsibilities, giving you a leg up in competing for those specific jobs.
The Role Of Your Parents
Your parents will obviously play an important role in your life. As a child, you may have depended on them for comfort and security. Going through early adolescence is already enough pressure without having to deal with your finances. As your parent, it’s their responsibility to guide you in making responsible choices and decisions. The same goes for the job search. While you’re still a minor, it’s your responsibility to seek their advice and assist them in getting you started. This means you’ll need to do your part also.
Get A Part-time Job
Even if you’re doing everything else right, you’ll still need to get a part-time job to supplement your income. This can be anything from a few hours a week to several days a week. Even if you don’t want to spend your entire life working in an office, you’ll still need to get a job. The benefits of a part-time job include:
- More free time;
- Pursuing your interests without having to worry about your daily expenses;
- Continuing education through on the job training and development.
Along with getting a part-time job, you should also be looking for ways to gain experience. This can be anything from internships to participating in a work-study program. The key is to find something that will build your experience and credentials while also helping you make money. If you can’t find suitable work, consider looking for a part-time job or volunteering to gain some work-related experience.
Take Care Of Your Health
Take good care of your health. Eat well, get plenty of sleep, and avoid stress and anxiety as much as you can. These are all necessary for a happy and successful life. If you follow these simple instructions, you’ll be on your way to becoming a fully-fledged adult.
Hopefully, these tips for making money online at 14 years old will assist you in taking the first steps toward a rewarding career in data science and IT. From there, you can decide what direction you want to take your career. Just remember to take care of your health and the opportunities that are presented to you.