Adhd and computer science?

[Loshvi]

Can anyone with adhd became a webdesigner or learn coding ??? At the age of 30? Is it a good idea or is it too late ?

[STEM_Dad]

Yes, I've known people with ADHD who studied computer science, or other technology based subject. I've known several who have ADHD and work in tech fields. I've chatted online with several more on forums like this one.

I returned to college at 32 to pursue a bachelor's in Computer Engineering. (I had previously studied Computer Information Systems in my 20s, including a course in Web Design.) After four challenging years, I didn't finish the degree, but did get a job in Information Technology.

* I didn't get diagnosed with ADHD until I was 45, which was nine years after I started working in IT. (My career progress was slow up to that point, but I am finally at the level I was aiming for the last few years.)

.....

You will probably have some struggles, but you can do it!

[notanotter]

Yes, absolutely you can learn coding. It just depends on your personal abilities and willingness to spend time on it. The hyperfocus can be turned into a benefit, even.

What concerns you that would be a problem for this kind of work? Have you tried it yet?

When you're 40, you'll find it hilarious that you thought 30 was too late. 💀😹

It might take slightly longer to learn than when you were a teen, but you'll balance that by being a motivated, dedicated student. Plus you're presumably getting your ADHD treated and learning self-management skills.

[MaudQ]

Totally! I’m 48 and have learned a whole new suite of digital design apps and a new career in the past 5 years. Two thoughts: you might find it easier than you think because a lot of folks with ADHD are under challenged in their work. So doing something hard but interesting can give our brains a boost that we don’t get with work that’s easy but boring. It could also be hard in certain ways. When I was learning in school or in my early career, I kind of skated past the parts that I thought were boring or unimportant. Learning new stuff now, I’ve tried to be really intentional about not skipping steps. And that’s been challenging for me. I would definitely pull in some support (therapist, coach) if you’re serious about this shift. Also, I don’t know if you’re the kind of person who bounces between interests, but I would start slowly before investing in classes just to see if you genuinely like it. If this is something you want, you can and should do it. I’m so happy with my choice to do something new and really put the time in - good luck!

[AlexBarton]

It was a perfect fit for me at that age and now 30 years later it is still a perfect fit. I work from home for clients around the world. I set my own hours and can take breaks when I need too. The clients give me their parameters and allow me to add my own creativity.

Before starting my own business I worked typical 9-5 jobs. It was horrible! So, I went back to school to get a degree in computer science but found out that the college was way behind the times and all their courses were outdated. While I agree that there are many things to learn before you launch into web design or coding you may want to look at several options to make sure it will truly benefit you.

Best wishes.

[NonstopThinking in reply to AlexBarton]

When you went back to school and saw how behind the college courses were did you stop and learn on your own or did you continue with the computer science degree?

[Blue_186281_red]

I'd say ADHD can do ANY career if it's your passion. Computer science tops my list of professions for ADHD. I live in silicon valley and I'd guess that every IT professional of any value is ASD, ADHD, or some sort of neurodivergent.