A few years ago, I started building websites with WordPress. Like many designers, it became my gateway into web development. I loved how quickly I could bring ideas to life using page builders, themes, and plugins. It allowed me to move beyond graphic design and create complete websites for clients and businesses.
For years, WordPress played a huge role in my career. It helped me grow professionally and became one of the skills I use almost every day at work.
But over time, I realized I wanted more.
As projects became more complex, I started running into limitations. While WordPress is an excellent CMS, certain applications and features weren’t practical to build with it alone.
Some of the challenges I encountered included:
- Building custom portal web applications
- Having complete flexibility over UI and user experience
- Creating highly customized functionality through code
- Scaling applications beyond what plugins could comfortably support
That realization pushed me to step outside my comfort zone.
Why I Joined a Bootcamp
Instead of staying where I was comfortable, I enrolled in Bootcamp Uplift Code Camp to learn full-stack development using the MERN Stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js).
It wasn’t because WordPress was “bad.” In fact, I still think it’s one of the best platforms for business websites, landing pages, blogs, and marketing sites.
I wanted to learn how modern web applications are built from the ground.
My Job Portal Project
One of the projects I’m most proud of during bootcamp is a Job Portal application.
The goal is to help businesses manage recruitment through their own platform instead of relying entirely on third-party job sites.
Features for Job Seekers
- Search available jobs
- View job details
- Submit applications
- Upload resumes
- Track application progress
Features for Administrators
- Create and manage job postings
- Edit existing listings
- View registered applicants
- Track applications
- Update the application status, which is reflected in the applicant’s dashboard
Building this project taught me how different application development is compared to building traditional websites. Every feature requires planning—from database design and API development to frontend state management and authentication.
The Learning Curve
I’ll be honest, it hasn’t been easy.
React, Express, MongoDB, and Node.js require a different way of thinking. There are moments when debugging takes longer than writing the actual code.
And yes, I use AI.
Not to build everything for me, but to speed up repetitive tasks, understand concepts faster, and help me debug problems. I still spend time understanding the code because I believe that’s where real learning happens.
The goal isn’t to rely on AI; it’s to become a developer who knows when and how to use it effectively.
Looking Ahead
This Job Portal is still my “baby project.”
I’m still in bootcamp, which means there are features I want to improve, bugs to fix, and many ideas I’d like to add in future versions. Every week I learn something new that makes me want to refactor part of the application.
It’s a continuous process—and that’s what makes software development exciting.
A New Career Chapter
My background is in digital marketing, graphic design, and WordPress development.
Now I’m combining those experiences with full-stack development.
I believe understanding both design and engineering allows me to build products that are not only functional but also user-friendly.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.
If you’re considering learning full-stack development, don’t be afraid to start. It’s challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding skills you can develop.
For anyone in the Philippines looking to make the transition, I highly recommend checking out Uplift Code Camp. The experience has challenged me to think differently and helped me grow as both a developer and a problem solver.
This is only the beginning.