If you want to practice your programming skills in a zero risk, and hopefully fun, environment then why don't you join us CodeRanchers having a go at Advent of Code.
You can even put it on your CV, or at least bring it up in conversation at interview. I'm really serious, this kind of stuff is gold for something technical to talk about with future employers.
Hope over to the
Advent of Code intro topic to get started. Hopefully you can join us.