I can tell that this is great insight for someone just out of college so before I start, props to you. Coming out of college and into my first job I found it beneficial for myself when starting to work on a problem first consider all alternative ways to solve it. I would consider things like would this be better off done in a different language? Using a different library? Using a different devops tool? Can I use some new technology that could help me learn something new? This helped me to broaden my expertise. At the same time remember to balance these choices. You may hear push back from people saying do not just use a new technology for the sake of it, you need a good reason to which I can also agree with.

Feeling connected and a sense of supporting community is really important to be happy with the work you are doing. I found that sense of community by making a friend at work, someone that I would hang with outside of work and could relate and support me in decisions. This friend also pushes me and we have some fun competitions sometimes to better our skills that we use for work or to learn new ones. I have since looked to make friends in more co-workers to build my community and network of people that give me this feeling and that I hopefully provide for them too!

I know this part sounds cliche and old but if there is no luck with co-workers or even friends then there is always the community you are talking to here! HN is a great way to improve and become active in community. HN is not the only one too, meetups around your area could be more common than you think. Take the time to get out and meet other people in your field and take it upon yourself to expand your network and community.

Overall I would say keep up drive for new experiences and career building. You might even try to suggest ways to improve and build community within your company! Take it upon yourself to see if you can push the company to implement your ideas! :)

Thanks for the insight!

One thing I was able to do recently that gave me a good perspective is attend a conference (CodeMash). I was able to talk to many people and see a few talks which was a great experience.

I'd say out of the building I'm in I'm one of the youngest working here (that I know of).

That is awesome! Remember that many people want to learn regardless of their skill level or experience level and everyone has something you can learn from them. Take advantage of both and try to connect with those around you. :)