Education has never been confined to a single place or schedule in my life. Between being a full-time student and working a full-time job, I have had to find ways to learn whenever and wherever time allows. Online platforms such as YouTube, Zoom, and GitHub have made that possible by giving me flexible access to knowledge and practical experience that extends far beyond the classroom. These tools have not only strengthened my academic foundation in computer science, but have also helped me apply what I learn in real-world and professional settings. YouTube has been one of the most consistent learning resources throughout my undergraduate education. When coursework introduced complex programming concepts or algorithms, I often needed additional explanations and practice to feel confident. YouTube allowed me to explore topics at my own pace, whether that meant revisiting basic concepts or diving deeper into advanced material. Because I balance school with full-time work, I frequently used breaks during my workday to watch coding tutorials and complete short lessons related to my classes. This approach helped me stay engaged with my coursework even outside of scheduled class time and made it easier to prepare for exams and large projects. Learning in this flexible way allowed me to reinforce classroom material and immediately apply it to assignments, which improved both my understanding and performance. Zoom played a key role in helping me translate academic knowledge into professional readiness. Through Zoom, I participated in the CodePath software engineering program, which brought together students and instructors from around the world. This experience exposed me to collaborative learning in a virtual environment similar to modern workplaces. Zoom made it possible to work with peers across different time zones, attend live instruction, and receive real-time feedback. One of the most impactful aspects of this program was completing mock technical interviews through Zoom. These interviews pushed me to explain my reasoning clearly, think through problems under pressure, and receive constructive feedback. As a result, my confidence grew significantly, and I began applying for internships I previously believed I was not prepared for. Practicing these interviews in a realistic, virtual setting helped bridge the gap between academic learning and professional expectations. GitHub further strengthened my ability to apply technical knowledge in practical ways. Using GitHub, I collaborated with classmates on projects even when we were not physically together. The platform taught me how to manage version control, contribute to shared codebases, and adapt to feedback from others. Reading and responding to code reviews improved my problem-solving skills and encouraged me to write cleaner, more efficient code. GitHub also helped me understand how software development functions in real-world teams, where communication and adaptability are just as important as technical skill. These online tools have shaped me into a disciplined and motivated learner. As a first-generation college student, I have relied on ambition and persistence to create opportunities for myself. Online learning platforms have allowed me to maximize my time, apply my knowledge beyond the classroom, and prepare confidently for a career in software engineering. They have shown me that with determination and the right resources, education can continue anywhere.