My friend and I decided to build our own game server. He handled the world mapping, and I took on the programming. I learned my first language, PAWN (a version of C). Seeing my code actually change things in the game world was a huge moment. This is where I truly learned the logic of programming.
It all started with GTA San Andreas. I discovered the multiplayer mod (SAMP) and was hooked instantly. I spent an entire year playing and exploring the community, not knowing that this game would eventually lead me to my career. This was my first real introduction to the world of online communities.
I decided to pivot into web development. I signed up for a 3-month course but got obsessed. I worked day and night, finishing the entire curriculum in just 19 days. I mastered React and the modern tools needed to build for the web. I knew then that I wanted to build products for a living.