As I approach my 30th birthday, I have only 2-3 years of development experience due to some challenges in my educational journey and health issues. Though my salary is decent, I aspire to make a significant career leap by the end of this year.
I excel in frontend development and have a strong grasp of JavaScript and React, among other tools. However, I’ve always aimed to reach an expert level in my skills.
This year, I plan to dedicate 3-6 months to mastering advanced frontend topics, including optimization, security, and scalability. I also intend to focus on learning data structures and algorithms during this time.
My primary question is, in this era dominated by AI, should I invest my time in becoming an expert in frontend development, or should I pivot to learning about backend technologies, databases, and cloud computing?
I possess some basic knowledge of MySQL, Python, and Go, but I don’t feel particularly passionate about deepening my skills in those areas. I worry about the limited time I have.
I apologize if this isn’t the appropriate platform for my query. I’m just seeking guidance on the best way to move forward.
To sum it up: I’m nearly 30 with limited experience, and my strength lies in frontend. Should I fully commit to mastering frontend skills or diversify into other domains given the influence of AI?
Given your strong frontend foundation and limited timeframe, doubling down on mastering advanced frontend concepts makes strategic sense. The reality is that AI tools are enhancing rather than replacing frontend development - they help with code generation and debugging, but complex UI/UX decisions, performance optimization, and architectural choices still require deep human expertise. Frontend developers who understand advanced optimization, security patterns, and scalability will remain highly valuable. Your plan to focus on algorithms alongside frontend mastery is solid since it strengthens problem-solving skills applicable across domains. Rather than spreading yourself thin across backend technologies you lack passion for, becoming a true frontend expert with strong algorithmic thinking will likely yield better career advancement opportunities within your timeline.
hey there! curious about something - what specific AI developments are making you question your frontend focus? i mean, are you seeing AI tools that actually threaten core frontend work or just change how we aproach it? seems like your react/js skills could be pretty valuable for integrating AI features into user interfaces, no?
honestly at 30 with your skillset, i’d say stick with frontend but maybe add some fullstack knowledge gradually. the ai tools im using actually make me MORE productive as a frontend dev - copilot helps with boilerplate but the creative problem solving is still all me. your react expertise isnt going anywhere soon, trust me.