Pre-Dojo
- Worked as an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) Therapist
- Was incredibly motivated and ready to take the next step in their career
- Didn’t feel they were smart enough to master machine learning but took a chance anyway
After Dojo:
- Works as a Business Analyst at Self Esteem Brands
- Dreams of moving to Brazil with their partner now that they have a remote job in technology that affords them flexibility
Program: Data Science Part-Time Bootcamp
Testimonial:
“I had crazy imposter syndrome. I didn’t think I was ready at all. I met with a few Career Services folks, who really helped me realize my weak point was at selling myself both on LinkedIn and through my resume. About a week after coaching I started getting regular interviews, and another 3 weeks later I got my first offer.”
Tell us a little about yourself. Age, hobbies, passions, and what you were doing (professionally) before the bootcamp?
I’m 28 years old, non-binary (they/them), certified yoga teacher, bonsai enthusiast, tea drinker, lover of tattoos, the outdoors, and personal growth. I’m also an Australian shepherd owner and a Neuroscientist.
Beyond the desire of learning how to code, why did you decide to enroll in the bootcamp?
I had tried coding briefly for things like data analysis in previous professional experiences. While working with people with autism, I was struck by the similarities between what I do, and the fundamentals of coding and data science—teaching something that doesn’t necessarily think like you how to approach a problem.
What fears or doubts were “holding you back” from enrolling? How did you get over them?
I didn’t necessarily believe myself smart enough to understand something like machine learning, through the framework of a whole new language (Python). I tried watching some YouTube videos on the topics I knew I was going to be learning about, and once I felt like I had an idea of what we were going to learn, I moved on. This way, the whole bootcamp felt a little like a review, with the addition of SO MUCH practical know-how.
What sealed the deal on Coding Dojo? Why did you choose us over other programs?
At the time I signed up, it seemed like most other bootcamps weren’t highlighting machine learning topics in their data science bootcamp offerings. I really wanted to focus on that, so I chose Coding Dojo.
What was it like getting ready for the bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
I was so motivated honestly. I was very ready to take the next step for my career, and I was lucky enough to be able to make the space for it in my life. I spent a lot of extra time doing my own YouTube research on topics we were talking about in bootcamp throughout as well.
Walk us through your first few weeks in the program. What were the parts you liked? Parts you struggled with?
It really was a whole new world. Learning the language, putting it into effect, and seeing the results was incredibly rewarding (even when it’s just dropping a column or row at first). It got easier as I started to understand how computers “think” through everything I was typing.
How did you overcome the obstacles or struggles you faced?
Using ALL the resources! I bought a book, frequented YouTube and stack overflow, and consistently asked my TAs, instructor, and peers questions. A lot of the time, just having the same concept explained in different words was enough for me to grasp it.
When your graduation date was approaching, how did you feel about your skills and job prospects?
I had crazy imposter syndrome. I didn’t think I was ready at all. I met with a few Career Services folks, who really helped me realize my weak point was at selling myself both on LinkedIn and through my resume. About a week after coaching I started getting regular interviews, and another 3 weeks later I got my first offer.
How did the job hunt go? Where did you land a job?
It took about four months from graduating to get a job as the first two months were very slow. I focused on upskilling, getting more knowledge on data systems and machine learning, and working on my projects. I met Career Sprout through Coding Dojo, and they really got me on track with my job hunt. Just about a month after signing up, I had an offer. I now work as a Business Analyst at Self Esteem Brands, the parent company of Anytime Fitness and a few other fitness and beauty brands.
Beyond the data science expertise, did the bootcamp give you anything else?
Huge confidence. I didn’t think I had it in me to learn how to code. It felt like an impossible task only geniuses actually get proficient at. Since I learned Python, I recommitted to Duolingo as well. I have so much more faith in my ability to learn new things!
What advice do you have for others who are interested in coding bootcamps or who are just starting one?
Go for it. Jump in with both feet. There will be a lot you don’t understand in the beginning. Put in the time, and all those pieces will fit together.
What are your goals/dreams for the future, say 5 or 10 years from now?
I want to buy a house with my partner and hopefully move to her home country of Brazil. We both work technical roles now, so we have the luxury of remote work opportunities.
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If you are interested in learning how to code and upgrading your career, Coding Dojo bootcamp offers accelerated learning programs that can transform your life. We offer both part-time and full-time online coding courses, as well as programs training you on Data Science, Cybersecurity, and UI/UX Design. We also offer financing options, scholarships, and other tuition assistance programs to help you with financial barriers.
If you want to invest in yourself and your future, there is no better time than the present! If you’re interested, use this link to schedule a 15-minute exploratory session with one of our Admissions representatives today.