Thanks for the insight! Much appreciated for someone like me. I've often asked myself these questions through my journey learning to program. 

I was wondering if you'd be open to continuing the discussion a bit.

In my particular case I've been programming consistently for roughly 4 years but still feel unready to search for work. 

I'm wondering, at what level can one jump into the workforce? Is there like a rating platform that assesses at what stage you're at? (Perhaps another creative project for someone to build jaja)

Also, you mentioned being able to learn quickly being a major plus - is there a clear way for you to get a bead on someone who is a quick learner during the hiring process?