Data structures and algorithms (DSA) can be intimidating. Trust me, I’ve been there. Big-O notation? Algorithm efficiency? At first, it all sounded like something out of a science fiction novel.
Let me share my story. I wasn’t always a programmer. My journey began with a bachelor’s degree in physics. I first encountered programming during my master’s in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).
At that time, I had to design software-based signal processing algorithms and build receivers capable of decoding satellite signals to calculate position, navigation, and time (PNT).
The challenge?
I didn’t know Python or MATLAB, let alone how to code. I felt overwhelmed—just like you might feel when staring at a complex algorithm for the first time.
But I refused to give up. I started learning. My confidence grew with every tutorial I followed and every book I read. During my master’s degree, I successfully developed projects like:
A software-based GPS receiver
A software-defined GPS signal generator
A machine-learning-based GNSS spoofing detector
The Turning Point
After completing my master’s, I was ready to land a job. I applied to a local company, got an interview, and was thrilled to showcase my GNSS expertise.
Things started off great—my knowledge of GNSS impressed them. But then, the conversation shifted to programming.
That’s when my confidence began to waver.
As a self-taught developer, I lacked a formal understanding of computer science concepts like data structures and algorithms. Terms like linked lists, hash maps, and recursion felt foreign to me.
The interview turned into a nightmare. My answers stumbled, my thoughts froze, and the interviewer politely asked me to leave.
For the first time, I doubted myself—my skills, career choices, and even my passion for programming.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t quit.
Sharpening the Saw
Instead, I decided to turn my setback into a learning opportunity. I began studying software engineering fundamentals and watching countless YouTube tutorials. That’s when I discovered LeetCode, a platform for practicing coding problems.
Excited, I dove in. But there was another problem.
Even the easy problems felt like walking on water.
Why? Because I lacked the foundational problem-solving skills that come from understanding data structures and algorithms.
Why DSA Matters
Learning DSA isn’t just about passing coding interviews—it’s about becoming a better problem solver. Here’s what DSA equips you with:
Efficiency: Writing optimized code that runs faster and uses fewer resources.
Problem-Solving Skills: Breaking down complex problems into manageable solutions.
Confidence: Facing programming challenges head-on without feeling overwhelmed.
Career Growth: Excelling in technical interviews and building systems that scale.
I kept practicing, reading, and solving problems daily. Slowly but surely, concepts like binary trees, dynamic programming, and graph traversal began to click.
And guess what? I landed my dream job.
The moral of the story?
You don’t have to be a computer science major to master data structures and algorithms. You only need persistence, the right resources, and a willingness to embrace the struggle.
Take the First Step Today
The journey might seem daunting, but every great programmer started where you are now. Begin small, focus on the fundamentals, and don’t be afraid to fail.
Your future self will thank you.
Stay tuned for the next post about mastering the Big-O notation.
Remember, these efforts are for you. So, let me know if you have anything to say. I am always here for you and will answer every comment.