Learning Ruby over Summer

[lyam_kaskade]

I was hoping to learn some Ruby over the summertime before university starts, so that I have some programming knowledge when I apply for my coop in january. However, I'm unsure of how widespread Ruby use is, and am wondering whether a different language would be just as easy to learn, but more practical. Can anyone name some companies that use Ruby frequently? (and any other comments you may have).

Also, any tips/advice on beginning would be appreciated. I've downloaded the one-click-Ruby and will be going through one of the tutorials soon.

[wtd]

http://www.rubygarden.org/ruby?RubyNuby
http://www.rubygarden.org/ruby?RubyTestimonials
http://www.rubygarden.org/ruby?StarterProblems
http://www.rubygarden.org/ruby?RealWorldRuby

Also I'd mention Ruby on Rails, which is gaining widespread acceptance.

[wtd]

Just thought I'd add that you can ask questions here, and if I'm in the IRC channel, you can feel free to ask questions there.

[lyam_kaskade]

Rockin'. Thanks.
I guess I'll get started then.

[Tony]

lyam_kaskade wrote:

so that I have some programming knowledge when I apply for my coop in january... Can anyone name some companies that use Ruby frequently?

That's great -- keep in mind that for each job application, you'll be compeating with as much as 300 other students. So anything that makes you unique is of a great advantage.

Last term I worked for Quest Software Inc., and I used Ruby to write web applications for internal use. Loads of fun.

[lyam_kaskade]

Thanks. Anything else you can suggest to add uniqueness?

Also, while we're on this topic, where do people live while they're on their co-op?

[Tony]

lyam_kaskade wrote:

Also, while we're on this topic, where do people live while they're on their co-op?

At home, with my mother.

Though that will not be the case if I get a job in another geographic location... say Germany?

[Hikaru79]

Here's two great books:
http://www.poignantguide.net/ruby/ (Not really a hardcore programming manual -- more like a comedy sketch that accidently teaches Ruby on the way )
http://www.rubycentral.com/book/ (A more comprehensive, serious look at Ruby)

[bullets]

im learning ruby to (thx wtd) and hahahaha only the first couple paragraphs in and this comedy one is great (http://www.poignantguide.net/ruby/)

[Cervantes]

Yeah, the start is funny. But later it tends to get less funny, and the story takes longer and longer to explain. It's getting quite annoying. Unless you still think it's funny, just skip over the story parts and jump into the code.

[bullets]

lmao thats a bummer but whatever its programming whats really fun about it

[wtd]

The Poignant Guide is more a lesson in abstract thinking that just happens to be a decent intro to Ruby.

[bullets]

works for me, need to think more abstract a bit

[wtd]

Good luc. And if you have questions... ASK!

[lyam_kaskade]

Question: what exactly is Ruby on Rails, and what would I use it for?