Web Developer: Interview with Ahmad Kharbat

Developers shape how a website looks and works. They are the computer science geeks behind the screen pulling the strings, and a lot of us would be lost without them. LevelTen has two in-house, both wonderfully gifted individuals with quirky personalities, and today I interviewed one of them to figure out what goes into programming a fully functioning website. 

Sky: How did you get started in your career?

Ahmad: I was interested in computers since childhood. I got my first computer in 1998 and that is when I developed an interest in programming. I decided to study it in college and have it be my official major.

Sky: What programming languages do you use?

Ahmad: Mainly PHP, HTML, CSS, Javascript, since those are what we mainly use here at LevelTen.

Sky: How would you describe your job as a developer?

Ahmad: It’s challenging and convenient. It’s fun and it's something that I love to do. It’s a really good job if you can handle the kind of stress that comes with it. Just like any other job, I guess. 

Sky: What's the hardest thing about your job?

Ahmad: Mainly being addicted to the computer, spending long hours behind the screen. Sometimes it can affect your social life. I spend a lot of time behind the computer, and I can’t go on a vacation without my laptop.

Sky: What is the most interesting thing about your job?

Ahmad: I can change something on the other side of the world with a line of code. I can make a difference with a small effort or small amount of work and it can be reflected globally. This idea has always fascinated me.

Sky: What advice would you give to someone wanting to become a developer?

Ahmad: I would tell them that they should be ready to spend a major part of their life dedicating themselves to this career. Also, if you want to get engaged or married at some point in your life, make sure that your partner has some sort of tolerance towards this, you need to manage your time and your mental space well! 

Sky: Do you have any recommended reading?

Ahmad: I would recommend reading more about programming, but I'm reading a book lately which is called "Awaken the Giant Within," I would highly recommend reading this book as it would give you an energetic boost to do your own thing!

Sky: What would you do if you won the lottery tomorrow?

Ahmad: First of all I would invest in some projects so that my money could grow. I would immediately start a family and maybe buy a cool house on the beach or something (it would definitely have an internet connection).

Sky: As your intern, I'm required to know: what’s your preferred caffeinated beverage?

Ahmad: Coffee!!!