What’s in My Bag ( Aspiring software developer edition)
I was recently inspired by a CNET article titled -“ what’s in my bag”. The article detailed the contents of their graphic designer’s bag. So, I thought I’d do the same and write a blog post about what’s in MY bag. I’m no graphic designer so here’s the backpack perspective of a aspiring software developer.
Puma Bag
(https://us.puma.com)
$50.00 USD
This item is of critical importance as it houses everything else. I went with a simple PUMA backpack and I love this bag. Its not too big, seeming bulky, but also not too small where it can’t comfortably fit all my tech and knickknacks. This bag is the traditional backpack style (over both shoulders). I chose this because I feel like this style is more functional, especially when you have all your gear packed. Its nice to have all that weight distributed equally on your shoulders. I do think that the messenger bag has a classier, more sophisticated look and I switch on occasion, But back to this bag.
Inside there are two laptop compartments which I use to house my main driver (Surface Pro 4) and my iPad. Besides a standard front pocket which I use to place my peripherals its also has a compartment on the top side of the bag which I like to hold smaller items, such as a pair or apple air pods or other thinner cables I may have. Lastly, the standard 2 container holders on the sides. I never use both but its always a nice to have the option.
2. Microsoft Windows Surface (And Pen)
Next my Surface pro 4, my pride and joy. I get a lot flack for this, since most of my friends are heavily brainwashed in the apple Eco-system, but I must say that I love my surface. I have had no complaints with it. Its does everything I need it to. The windows productivity suite is a given but the real selling point is the versatility from laptop to tablet. This coupled with the detachable keyboard cover is n my opinion, what make the Surface Pro a winning combo. Having the pen, adds additional note functionally as well as some doodle opportunities for when I’m on the train commuting to and from work or when I wanna unleash the dormant artist inside me. This also comes in handy for some good ole wire-framing for my web developers out there.
3. New iPad Pro 2018 64GB(With Pencil)
(https://www.apple.com)
The iPad is my favorite device made by apple. While I use my Surface for most of the functionality I would use my iPad for I still find use for it. I mainly use the iPad’s as an e-reader (I love my menga and comics!) and to watch Netflix when I’m going on long trips. Don’t get it twisted, I still love the iPad tho. Its just a harder sell for me since I have a Surface. I will say, I do enjoy drawing with the new apple pencil much more than I do with the surface, another main reason I got the iPad.
4. Javascript FlashCard
$86.00 USD
This item clearly identifies me as an aspiring developer (not to plug myself buttttt…I’m currently looking for developer opportunities). I purchased the Ultimate deck, 162 cards that are broken up into 3 decks: essential, expert and advanced. I’m currently on the essential deck and I’ve been loving these cards so far.
Of course I could buy flashcards from office depot and make my own, but the beauty of it is these cards are pre-made. That’s not just me being lazy, they are carefully curated by senior developers. They are questions and topics that top companies are asking. Some cards even have code snippets on them, which would be quite hard for me to do if I made them myself. I highly recommend these to any aspiring developer, especially those constantly on the go.
5. Battery Bank
$79.99 USD
Not much to say here-. This is just essential when your on IG’, twitter and just generally wasting battery on your phone. You can always use some additional juice and don’t want to be glue to a stationary outlet.
6. Water Container (Camel Bak)
(https://www.camelbak.com)
$15.00 USD
This mug keeps all beverage cold for HOURS!!, However, for me it’s mostly sparkling flavored water courtesy of Poland Springs. Any mug of this type will do the job though. Don’t be thirsty, stay hydrated folks!
7. Limited Edition Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones II
$349.95 USD
I’ve recently purchased these and can honestly say they are a very good investment. Before my daily driver as far as headphones went was the standard apple earphones, not the air pods, the one with the cord! Don’t get me wrong, apple earphones work just as good as any other my only complaint is how silly I look always trying to de-tangle them. I’m not a audiophile by any means but I can recognize bass when I hear it! If i’m honest, I got these mainly because they were a Christmas gift. Gift or not, now that I have them I can never go back. Not only do the Bose headphones look cool and swagged out, but they are functional as well. The noise canceling feature is what I’m talking about and it sure does work as advertised. Blocking out the outside world allows me to focus 100% into my work. It also gives me the change to notice things about music I listen to on a regular basis that I never noticed before. It’s that good. And that bass is there believe it!
When I’m developing time fly's because these headphones get me in the zone. I’m much more efficient. Same goes for when I’m in the gym. These headphones literally are responsible for me getting in those extra reps.
