Starting a coding bootcamp was a really new and challenging experience. I had no idea what to expect, but was interested in the short length, and overall outcome. I had a very small amount of coding experience, and the experience I did have let me know that the bootcamp was going to be challenging. Before choosing a bootcamp, I had to do a lot of research. There were many factors to decide from, and I needed to know which bootcamp would be the best investment. After a lot of research, price comparisons, and time, I decided on the Flatiron School. So far, I absolutely love it, and am grateful I chose this school. Between the instructors and my fellow students, I am learning a lot and getting to know some great people. The challenges of a bootcamp are still there, but it’s a little more bearable amongst friends. Here are a few things helping me stay afloat while in bootcamp:
- Ask for help when you need it
I had to learn how to be okay with asking questions. In the past, I’ve always tried to figure things out on my own. I learned quickly that this approach is not helpful for a coding bootcamp. Asking questions from instructors AND my fellow students has helped me so much throughout the cohort.
2. Get comfortable with independent research
Although asking for help is very important, utilize the tools on the internet as well! Google things you don’t know, read tech blogs, and try to find the answers from other sources. This helped me many times as well.
3. Humility
This one was and is the most important for me. Make sure to stay humble, and teachable. Being okay with not knowing things helps you to LEARN. This goes hand in hand with asking for help when you need it, as well as paying attention to and learning from others.
Coding bootcamps are pricey, and hard. It took me a long time before actually making the commitment to sign up for one. But so far, I am already seeing my investment pay off more than I first imagined. I highly recommend it for anyone on the fence, and look forward to continuing with the rest of the cohort!
