Learning Goal

gistfile1.txt

# Define Your Learning Goal: Building Your T-Shaped Skill Set

## 1. Select a Focus  
**Role:** Software Development Engineer - Amazon  

### Skill Focus:
- **Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA) Mastery**  
- **AWS Certified Developer – Associate**  

## 2. State Your "Why"  
Amazon has been my dream company since my bachelor's, but I never had the chance to interview. This role is a perfect opportunity to achieve my dream and be part of Amazon.  

## 3. Outline Your Learning Path  

### **Resources**  
#### **Data Structures & Algorithms:**  
- NeetCode and LeetCode (Daily problem-solving)  
- System Design Interview – (Udemy)  

#### **AWS Certification:**  
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate course  
- Hands-on projects using AWS Lambda, DynamoDB, and EC2  

#### **Mock Interviews:**  
- Participate in coding interview simulations  
- Behavioral interview preparation using Amazon’s Leadership Principles  

### **Mentorship/Peers:**  
- Connect with Amazon SDEs on LinkedIn for guidance  
- Join DSA-focused study groups  

### **Hands-On Practice:**  
- Solve **100+ LeetCode problems (Easy-Medium-Hard mix)**  
- Develop a **Java backend project using AWS services**  

## 4. Set Measurable Milestones (Using SMART Goals)  

### **Milestone 1 (Every Week):**  
- Complete **5-7 LeetCode problems**  
- Cover **DSA fundamentals**  

### **Milestone 2 (4 Weeks):**  
- Complete **AWS Certified Developer course**  

### **Milestone 3 (12 Weeks):**  
- Solve **100 LeetCode problems**  
- Take a **mock interview with a peer/mentor**  

### **Milestone 4 (8 Weeks):**  
- Complete **AWS certification exam**  
- Apply for **Amazon SDE Graduate position**  

## 5. Draft Your Success Criteria  

### **Technical Readiness:**  
- Solve **Medium-Hard DSA problems in under 45 minutes**  

### **Portfolio Projects:**  
- Deploy **at least one backend application on AWS**  

### **Certification:**  
- Earn **AWS Certified Developer – Associate**  

### **Interview Readiness:**  
- Complete **3 mock interviews with mentors/peers**  

## 6. Potential Blockers & Overcoming Them  

### **Blockers:**  
- **Limited time** due to coursework and job  
- **Stress**  

### **Strategies:**  
- Schedule **2-hour focused learning blocks daily**  
- Join an **accountability group for motivation**  
- Break down **complex DSA topics into daily challenges**  

### **Immediate Next Step:**  
- **Start AWS Developer Associate course and solve 1 LeetCode problem every day**