Postcard Sand Invitations |

Pre-Dojo:
For a few years, I was a VPN technician
As a child, he wanted to be a software developer but didn’t have the means.

After Dojo:
As an Associate Software Developer at Blue Cross Blue Shield
He has a solid foundation and knowledge-base for every stack he’s learned.
Imagine yourself as a Microservices developer in 5-10 years.

Program: Online Part Time Three Stack Bootcamp
Testimonial:
It was the best choice because it offered 3 stacks. You will be a more knowledgeable developer if you learn more than one language/framework. This will give you a better understanding of software development and different approaches.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before the bootcamp?
Before the bootcamp, I was a VPN technician for a few decades. This has no similarity to Software Development, so it didn’t really come in handy.
Why did you choose to enroll in the bootcamp, other than the desire to learn how to code?
I knew I wanted to change my career, but I didn’t know that there were coding bootcamps. Since I was a child, I wanted to become a software developer, but I didn’t have the resources or connections to do so.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
It was the best choice because it offered 3 stacks. You will be a better developer if you learn more than one language/framework. This will give you a better understanding of software development and different approaches.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
Nervous and excited. I prepared by reading the pre-bootcamp materials, algorithms, and looking up information online to see what I was getting into.
Take us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts did you struggle with?
Web Fundamentals was a lot of fun. It was fun that we started small and learned how to structure a web page using HTML, style it with CSS, and add functionality with JavaScript. Flex was a constant enemy of me from day one.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
You put in the effort. LONG hours, lots and lots of trial & errors, print statements, approaching the problem from different angles, Google, etc.
Do you have any funny stories to share about bootcamp? Make friends! Do you have fond memories?
I made many friends here and was able to work with some of them on a group project that was both great fun and a great learning opportunity.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
I was constantly creating small projects that combined what I had learned between each stack with new tools and uses for each language/framework I had discovered on my own to improve my skills. I was comfortable with all I had learned. I felt confident that I would be able to get my foot in the door of a job once I had learned enough. The bootcamp had given me a solid foundation and knowledge-base about each stack.
How did your job hunt go? How did you land a job at your current job?
It was hard work, and I had already sent out hundreds of applications. I used to set aside an hour each night to apply for any job that I felt I would be a good match for. About a month after I graduated, I was hired by Blue Cross Blue Shield as an Associate Developer.
What advice would you give to others interested in Data Science bootcamps, or just starting one?
Although this is not the right answer for everyone, learning software development/coding requires a lot more time, effort, problem solving (often your own) and frustration. It’s a wonderful feeling to finally solve a problem or create an application from scratch. This is not something you can pick up quickly. You have to put in the effort.
What are your future goals/dreams, in five or ten years?
I would like to become a Microservices Developer.–The Coding Dojo bootcamp is a program that will transform your life and teach you how to code. We offer online coding classes that are part-time or full-time, as well programs that teach you Data Science, Cybersecurity, UI/UX Design, and Data Science. We also offer financing options.

Pre-Dojo:
As a one-man video production business, as well as in marketing & sales.
He was expecting a child and knew he needed a better job to support his family.
Had little coding experience with HTML and CSS

After Dojo:
As a Lead Frontend developer, he joined Homebase and has since been promoted to the position of Director of Product Management. He oversees all products, feature strategy, and roadmap prioritization.
Will continue to work on innovative ideas from diverse perspectives and experimentation in order to build the future for living.

Program: Three Full Stack, Full Time Bootcamp
Testimonial:
My life was transformed by three months of hard work. You can do the same for yours if you put in the effort.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before the bootcamp?
I am 30 years of age and am a Coding Dojo alumnus from the spring 2016 class. I have over ten years of experience in the startup industry and am passionate about personal development, tech, and family.
I have a journalism education. After graduating college, I set up a small video production studio that I ran for three years. After three years of struggling to make ends work, I had a brief stint in sales and decided to switch to software development.
Why did you choose to enroll in a bootcamp for coding?
Before Coding Dojo, my fiance, now wife, and I discovered that we were going to have our first child at the age 23. This unexpected news forced us to make big decisions about our lives. I could have been offered a job as a marketing intern, but that would have been enough for us. I didn’t want this for my family, and that wasn’t what I wanted for the rest my life. I knew I could do better.
I was in marketing at a startup when I was in college. This is where my passion for code was ignited. It would take me four more years to pursue it. While working at the startup, it dawned on me that innovation is actually the responsibility of the development team. While creatives may have their ideas, developers are the ones who bring innovation to life. This is why I decided to learn code.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
Living in Kansas City was the biggest challenge. In 2016, Kansas City didn’t have any coding bootcamps that were worth putting my family’s future in jeopardy. I had a baby and wanted to be able to get the best bootcamp experience possible.
I wanted to be accepted into one of the most prestigious programs in the country. Coding Dojo was the right fit for me. Coding Dojo had just opened a Tulsa branch. I didn’t want the hassle of moving to a new campus so I decided to travel to Coding Dojo headquarters in Seattle. I would be gone for my fiance’s entire second pregnancy. Although it was a difficult decision, I can see that it was the right one.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
It was crucial that we had enough time. We had a baby in six months. Coding Dojo is a well-known bootcamp that is intense. This is because you can learn three stacks in three months. I could have attended a six-month bootcamp in Chicago or Denver and been closer to home, but my child would have been born by the end of my graduation. I needed a bootcamp that could help my achieve my goals quickly. I didn’t mind that I would have work twice as hard. I had something bigger than me I was working for.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
Coding Dojo was my first introduction to HTML and CSS for email campaigns. I had no experience with other marketing functions. This helped, but HTML/CSS was only the tip. Because Python was my first stack, I learned it through YouTube and other online platforms. You have to learn the basics and also learn a new language during the first month. It’s why it’s so difficult. It is important to learn as much as you can before starting the program. The first month at Coding Dojo is significantly more difficult than the rest.
Take us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts did you struggle with?
It’s not something I will sugarcoat. The first few weeks of bootcamp can be very difficult. The curriculum allows you to build skills incrementally. What you learn the day before can be applied to what you do the day after. Coding Dojo’s greatest strength is their ability to encourage students to work with each other. If you’re stuck, you can ask for help from students sitting next to your. If you are still having trouble understanding your problem, you will be asked to work with students next to you.

Pre-Dojo
As an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA), Therapist
They were extremely motivated and ready for the next step in their careers
They didn’t believe they were smart enough for machine learning, but took a chance.

After Dojo:
As a Business Analyst for Self Esteem Brands
They dream of moving to Brazil with their partner, now that they have a remote job as a technology professional that allows them flexibility.

Data Science Part-Time Bootcamp
Testimonial:
“I had crazy imposter syndrome. I didn’t believe I was ready. I met with Career Services personnel who helped me see my weakness in selling myself on LinkedIn and in my resume. After coaching, I began getting regular interviews and my first offer three weeks later.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before the bootcamp?
I am 28 years old, not-binary (they/them), a certified yoga teacher, bonsai fan, tea drinker and a lover of tattoos, the outdoors and personal growth. I am also an Australian shepherd owner, and a Neuroscientist.
Why did you choose to enroll in the bootcamp, other than the desire to learn how to code?
I had previously tried coding for data analysis in my previous professional experiences. I was struck by the similarities in what I do and the fundamentals behind coding and data science. I’m teaching someone who doesn’t necessarily think like me how to approach a problem.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
I wasn’t sure I was smart enough to be able to understand machine learning through the context of Python. I watched some YouTube videos about the topics I was interested in learning about. Once I felt confident that I understood what I was learning, I moved on. The whole bootcamp felt like a review with SO MUCH practical knowledge.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
It seemed that most other bootcamps didn’t highlight machine learning topics when I signed up. I wanted to be able to focus on this, so I chose CodingDojo.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
I was so motivated. I was ready to take the next step in my career and was fortunate enough to have the time to do so. I spent a lot more time researching YouTube topics on the topics we discussed in bootcamp.
Take us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts did you struggle with?
It was truly a new world. It was amazing to learn the language and then see the results. Even if it was just dropping one column or row, it was very rewarding. It became easier as I began to understand how computers “think” about everything I was typing.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
Use all the resources! I read a book, used stack overflow and YouTube to learn more, and asked my TAs, instructors, and peers questions. I found that the same concept was explained in different ways often helped me grasp it.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
I had crazy imposter syndrome. I didn’t believe I was ready. I met with Career Services personnel who helped me see my weakness in selling myself on LinkedIn and on my resume. After coaching, I began getting regular interviews and my first offer three weeks later.
How did your job hunt go? How did you land a job at your current job?
To get a job, it took me four months after I graduated. The first two months were very slow. I concentrated on upskilling, learning more about data systems and machine-learning, and working on my projects. Career Sprout was introduced to me through Coding Dojo. They helped me get on the right track in my job search. I received an offer within a month of signing up. I am now a Business Analyst at Self Esteem Brands. This is the parent company to Anytime Fitness and other fitness and beauty brands.
Did the bootcamp provide you with anything other than data science expertise?
Huge confidence. I didn’t believe I had the ability to learn code. It felt like a difficult task that only geniuses can master. I have recommitted to Duolingo since I learned Python. I have so much faith in my ability learn new things!
What advice would you give to others interested in coding bootcamps, or just starting one?
It’s possible. Jump in with both your feet. There will be a l

Pre-Dojo:
Owned a theatre production company and played various roles at a local college.
Not able to earn a steady income or have sufficient financial resources
I have had little programming experience before.

After Dojo:
Three dream jobs in one: Production Engineer at Bungie
She proved to herself that she can quickly learn difficult subjects
Comfortable in high-stress environments and environments

Program: Three Full-Stack Bootcamps in Seattle, WA
Testimonial:
“I know that I am more excited about my future now than ever before in my life. Hey, thanks, Dojo. ”
Please tell us about yourself. Your age, hobbies, passions and what you did (professionally) before joining the bootcamp.
I am 24 years old and have a passion for theater. I started a production company with a friend several years back. I have also done research on gravitational wave astronomy and may or not have a collection of swords. I love D&D.
Before joining the Dojo I graduated from UW Bothell in Culture, Literature and the Arts with a minor in Consciousness studies. I was a web assistant in the Office of Advancement and External Relations, and a TA for Cosmology (the one that deals with space and not the one about make-up) during my time there. Apart from that, I was also running my theater company. However, that was more of a labor of love than a job. My resume includes a lot of odd jobs, including barista, legal assistant, and freelance video editor, but nothing that was really “career-relevant.”
Why did you choose to enroll in a bootcamp for coding?
While having dinner with a friend at Mox Boarding house in Bellevue, I had an epiphany. I knew I wanted to pursue theater professionally but I didn’t want it to become a money-focused venture. It wasn’t likely to bring in a steady income. I was also sick of not having enough financial resources.
I decided that I needed a “day job” that was both engaging and non-soul-sucking. It would give me a steady paycheck while still allowing me to pursue my creative endeavors. After thinking back to the coding classes I took in highschool and the current tech market in Seattle, I realized that it was a wise decision to get into a tech job. It turned out that the friend I was dining with had just joined a local coding bootcamp called Coding Dojo!
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
If I’m being honest, my biggest fear was getting the money to pay for the tuition. It was definitely not a small amount, especially since I didn’t have the time to work while I was there. Thankfully, I was able get a loan through the Dojo’s partnership to SkillsFund. This was a great solution.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
It was a recommendation from a trusted friend. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have received a personal, honest recommendation. This is not an option for everyone. But, it’s possible. This is not for the faint-hearted, but if you put in the effort it will bring you out the other side (exhausted, but ready to apply for some amazing jobs! !
How was it to prepare for bootcamp? How did you prepare for the bootcamp?
Although I was nervous, it was not the most important thing. I was excited and determined to conquer this new challenge. I found it a great help to have the pre-course material sent to me. Being told that ‘hey, if this stuff is done by day one, you’re officially okay’ made me feel much more at ease.
Talk us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts were difficult?
The first few weeks of the program were truly amazing! Web Fundamentals was built on the skills I had previously acquired in the past. This gave me time to adjust to my new environment and get mentally settled before I was able to take on completely unfamiliar territory. I met many new and interesting people, learned new web-building techniques, and was able to frantically scribble windows like a mad person! It was very enjoyable.
As things got more complicated, I struggled to ask for help. My friends are nodding their heads and rolling their eyes as they read this. I am naturally too stubborn for my own good. But I’m improving! I can honestly say that my time at Dojo was a huge help.

You will become more proficient at every task, and your innate skills will be manifested in real life. This is why the bar keeps rising for the next step. The core desire for evolution is constant, and respect, happiness and love are all irrevocably tied to this.
Tom Hollingshead, who is only 24 years old has had a very interesting career. From 2013 to 2017, he was an Avionics Technician in the US Marine Corps. He then became a Quality Assurance Representative for General Dynamics, a global aerospace and defense company.
Tom knew that he wanted to broaden his horizons in tech even after a successful start to his career. He realized that his GI Bill(r), benefits covered education and retraining so he decided to concentrate on technical training that would give a leg up the avionics sector.
I have received so many types of technical training that I knew I wanted to expand my horizons if I ever had to write a program.
Tom did what most people do when they search for information: Google it. He looked at a number of technical training programs before he found the 14-week Coding Dojo bootcamp.
Tom attended an Open House where he met with instructors as well as Shiraz Sultan, the local Program Achievement Manager. Tom was immediately impressed by the sense of community, depth of the curriculum and the high job placement rate of recent alumni. Tom decided to take the leap and enroll.
The Coding Dojo was different from other boot camps in that you are not just gone after graduation, but you’re still part of the community. It was almost like career services, with so many resources.
Tom was able to enroll with his GI Bill(r), benefits in a breeze. He just had to show his Certificate of Eligibility through his eBenefits portal, and voila!
Tom did initial research on computer programming terms and techniques to prepare for the bootcamp. He was determined to give it his best shot and his excitement and anxiety increased as the first day approached. He didn’t complete the pre-course work, which Tom regrets and he recommends that future bootcamp students avoid.
Tom felt the Imposter Syndrome, which is something many people experience when confronted with stressful situations. He expected to be able to handle the coding bootcamp easily because of his Marine Corps experience, but he felt that he wasn’t good enough as he began to tackle the curriculum. The program quickly took Tom to a “different type of [mental] optimization.” He learned how to keep moving forward, even when he was trailing, and the curriculum began to click. His understanding grew with the help of his instructors.
It was intense. I won’t lie, I was surrounded by great people who were so supportive. The instructors are amazing, incredible good. They are able to explain everything to you, and then they take it from… That helped me a lot.
Tom began to finish his algorithms and started using databases effectively. He also formed close friendships with his cohort mates, who helped him through difficult parts of the curriculum. As he felt more accomplished, his excitement was rekindled and his Imposter Syndrome began to fade.
Coding is not a skill that can be mastered by one person. It’s the most important thing that many people don’t know is that no one person is the greatest coder. Everyone had their own piece of the puzzle, which they were just throwing in because it was scary. I won’t lie. It was hard. It was hard, but we did it together. It was an amazing experience.
As Tom progressed through bootcamp, and graduation day approached he kept “attacking algorithms”, which increased his confidence level and felt more accomplished. Once he was able write clean, effective code and communicate with other developers peer to peer, he felt like a personal revolution was taking place. Tom describes this as becoming “tech-literate” and compares it to learning to read.
You will one day be able to read. It’s like learning to read. Then someone says, “Hey, we have all these books.” We need to understand what’s in the books. I was like, “Yeah! I can read books.” It’s sort of like that.
Tom was able to finish his degree and began his job search. Tom was not interested in pursuing a job as a developer, unlike many of his fellow classmates. He wanted to use his newfound programming skills to improve his skills in the avionics industry. Tom knew that his tech skills would expand the range of roles he could apply to. Tom got a job within a few months of graduating.

Pre-Dojo:
As an Assistant Director of Operations in higher education,
You are looking for a safe, secure space to learn and grow?
Afraid, but also excited to take on a new challenge.

After Dojo:
As a Customer Support Engineer
You dream of a leadership or Diversity Equity & Inclusion position in a tech company that will empower and diversify the community.

Program: Full-Time Online Three-Stack Software Development Bootcamp
Testimonial:
The Career Services workshops that you attend during project weeks are devoted to your resume, LinkedIn, or interviews. You should be fully engaged in the workshops and complete the work. After you have graduated, you can go out and find a job that offers all the tools you need. You can also work on improving your projects.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before the bootcamp?
I enjoy being outdoors, running long distances, exploring national parks, and going to sporting events. I also love being an advocate for marginalized communities. Before Coding Dojo, my previous job was in the operations department of the Higher Education sector.
Why did you choose to enroll in the bootcamp, other than the desire to learn how to code?
I wanted to grow my skills and work ethic and I wanted to find a safe space that allowed me to learn and grow. It’s all about web development and coding. Because everyone touches code every day, my reach and impact can be so significant.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
The risk of diving in all. Uncertain of how I would come out the other side with a job, or nothing. It was my family and friends, from all the different fields I have worked in. I was able to trust everyone and they believed in me.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
Accessibility and dedication to veterans. Although I’m not a veteran, Coding Dojo is the only school that helps vets. Coding Dojo was more inclusive than other boot camps because I have many family members and friends who served.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
I was just excited. To take a chance on something new. There were moments when you wondered “What am I doing?” Are I going to be OK?” But I just kept learning and applying it as much as I could.
Take us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts did you struggle with?
I enjoyed the lectures with our instructors. I was always asking questions. Sometimes I struggled with concepts. But we got there. Those issues can be quickly addressed if you are proactive in your TA’s and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
Support. Problems would be addressed quickly and efficiently. I wouldn’t spend more than a few hours working on a problem. I would ask the right questions immediately.
Do you have any funny stories to share about bootcamp? Make friends! Do you have fond memories?
Connect with others. Teach others concepts that you understand. Ask all questions in lectures. Chat! Just keep connecting always.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
Although I was nervous, the Career Services workshops that you have during project week are dedicated to your resume, LinkedIn and interviews. You should be fully engaged in the workshops and complete the work. After you have graduated, you can go out and find a job that offers all the tools you need. You can also work on improving your projects.
How did your job hunt go? How did you land a job at your current job?
Although it took me a while to get interviews, applying for jobs is now so simple on all job platforms. I could apply for many jobs from my phone in minutes. After I had submitted a solid week’s worth of applications, I started to see recruiters reaching out and the interviews began to come in. To receive 2 offers in a week, it took me 2 months of job hunting. Keep applying despite all the rejections.
Did the bootcamp provide you with anything other than coding skills?
I was able to prepare for the field by attending Career Services workshops. They brought everything together.
What advice would you give to others interested in coding bootcamps, or just starting one?
Do what you love! It will be easy for you to explain what you did to recruiters. They will also see your passion for the subject you love! This was my why, and I believe that was the most difficult part of the interview.
What are your future goals and dreams, in five or ten years?
Hopefully, in some lead

Dr. Kwame Johnson has all of the education and knowledge necessary to become a neurosurgeon. Instead, he chose to become a product manager at Google DeepMind Health where his passion for health technology now touches millions of lives.
Johnson says, “Coming to Google is literally the culmination all I’ve been working towards.” Johnson says, “Currently working at the intersection of software and medicine, is exactly my dream job.” Johnson credits his 14-weeks spent at Coding Dojo Seattle’s bootcamp, April 2016, for making him realize his life-fulfilling goal. He was able to move from bootcamp to Microsoft to his dream job at Google in just two years.
We met Johnson to discuss his career and to learn how his roots in medicine and our bootcamp are making a real difference for the families and patients he has always wanted to help. He has gone from Doctorate to Dojo and proved that you can make a difference in the lives and livelihoods of others. At the age of 10, he watched his grandmother suffer from Alzheimer’s and then lost her to the disease a few years later. His plans to become a surgeon changed dramatically while he was at Duke University School of Medicine. He realized that the treatment of brain injuries and disorders was still based on some archaic knowledge. This needed to change.
He says, “There’s nothing you can actually offer a person.” “When you have any type of neurological injury, whether it’s stroke, gunshot wound to head, or subarachnoid hemorhage, the treatment plan is to stabilize all organs and wait and hope. This is what you tell your family and there’s nothing else we can do.
He switched gears through a startup competition and a business plan competition at his University. He heard ideas that could transform the industry if they had the right momentum. Johnson realized that pushing the boundaries of what is available to patients was where his heart was at. He completed his doctorate and worked as a medical editor for a few years.
But his dream of transforming the health industry through a hands-on approach was not realized. Johnson realized that he wanted to work on the actual technology, not just writing about it. That’s when he began researching coding bootcamps. “I have the healthcare background, and I needed the technology.”
Johnson initially considered a master’s degree in computer science, but he realized that bootcamps were a faster and more direct way to gain the technical knowledge he needed. Johnson believed that once he had both the background and the job experience, the jobs would follow.
After completing Coding Dojo’s 14 week bootcamp at our Seattle office, he was able leverage our partnership to enroll in the Microsoft LEAP Program. “Coding Dojo was a huge help in getting me into the [LEAP] program. It was a game-changer for me once I got in that program.
“From a networking perspective, Coding Dojo was very helpful in actually enabling me talk to alumni that were doing what I wanted.” Johnson was able leverage Dojo alumni to help him realize his dream to enter the tech industry. He was hired at Microsoft as a Program manager after completing the LEAP program. He worked with iOS and Bing. It was easy to move to Google to become a Product Manager at Google Health. This job was exactly what he had envisioned spending his entire life doing.
Johnson: “Essentially, [Coding Dojo] got my on the path to where I would literally be able to do this for free — and that’s why I don’t look forward Fridays or hate Mondays,” Johnson says. These were the things I had always hoped for in my career, but couldn’t achieve until I became a techniian.
Johnson spent months learning full-stack, front-end and back-end languages, databases, and other coding skills through the onsite bootcamp. The rigorous content, daily algorithm exercises such as white-boarding, and specialized career services offered grads gave Johnson the knowledge and support to get into his current position, which he considers to be the pinnacle in his career.
“The bootcamp’s actual content was clearly very helpful to understand how we got here.

Pre-Dojo:
Worked in Sales & Digital Marketing
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was forced to change my career.
Although I was able to code a little on my own, I needed guidance and structure in order to make it a career.

After Dojo:
Work as a Full Stack Developer at MyEtherWallet
Newfound confidence and communication skills, as well collaboration and collaboration skills.
Dreams of building a foundation that my family can rely on and a legacy.

Program: Three Full Stack Full Time Bootcamps
Testimonial:
I loved the idea of building out projects and giving people the opportunity to learn how to be resourceful and self-sufficient.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before the bootcamp?
I am 32 years old. I love spending time with my family, reading, going to the city, eating out, playing basketball, and sometimes doing a little music. I worked in digital marketing and sales from 2017 until the outbreak. After everything was closed down, I decided that I wanted to change careers and enter a new industry.
Why did you choose to enroll in a bootcamp for coding?
One of the main reasons I joined a bootcamp was because I knew what the bootcamp would offer and the structure it would provide. I tried self-teaching for a while, but I realized that I was running around in circles and wasting my time, which I didn’t have at this stage of my life.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
My biggest fear was going full-time. I was unsure if I could pick up the concepts at such a fast pace and on such a tight schedule. The bootcamp was well-organized and I developed amazing relationships with my cohortmates, which made it a great environment to learn.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
My background in sales and digital marketing meant that I appreciated the retargeting system and the Coding Dojo system. I would say that I loved the idea of building projects and giving us the opportunity to be resourceful and self-sufficient.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
I was excited because I have wanted to learn code for a long time. I love the creative process of solving problems and building them out. It was something I was looking forward to.
Take us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts did you struggle with?
Before the bootcamp, my schedule was erratic and I was freelance. It was the hardest part. But, I was able to adapt after the first week.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
As I grew older, I became more aware of my learning style and preferred method of studying. I prefer to be visual and do the work. My one saving grace during bootcamp was that I would do each project in the curriculum at least 3-5 times more to make sure I understood the concepts.
Do you have any funny stories to share about bootcamp? Make friends! Do you have fond memories?
One thing I will never forget is working with my cohortmates on Zoom until around 1am, or just hanging out. We still keep in touch because of how close we became.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
I felt that my skills had improved and that the foundation was being laid. I made a plan to continue building my skills after graduation. Although I was not the best at algorithms, I knew that if my projects were completed 100% and I used all the information I had learned in bootcamp, it would help me.
How did your job hunt go? How did you land a job at your current job?
I was able to apply every day in a planned manner for the job hunt. I treated it as if I was still in bootcamp. I applied everywhere from LinkedIn, ZipRecruiterer, Indeed, and many more… and I ended up landing a job with MyEtherWallet which is a software company.
Did the bootcamp provide you with anything other than coding skills?
Talk about growth and being comfortable with being uncomfortable every day. From standup meetings and presentations at 9am to algo practice, standup meetings, and presentations at 11am, I would say that I learned the most valuable skills I could ever have: confidence, communication skills, and understanding each person’s strengths and using them in a collaborative setting.
What advice would you give to others interested in coding bootcams?

Pre-Dojo:
As a library technician
You yearned for a career change but don’t have the time or money to go back to school
Wasn’t sure if the bootcamp structure was right for him

After Dojo:
Newfound self-reliance and problem solving skills
As a Front End Developer
The dream of building information systems from a technical and social perspective.

Program: Three Full-Stack Bootcamps in Seattle, WA
Testimonial:
It was a great way to learn coding by having to struggle with the material and then working together to solve it.
Please tell us about yourself. Your age, hobbies, passions and what you did (professionally) before joining the bootcamp.
I am a native Seattleite, 36 years old. I love to bake pizzas, and my favorite is the Hawaiian pizza with caramelized pineapple. I also enjoy playing guitar. Before the bootcamp, my job was as a librarian technician. This involved customer service, maintaining the physical collection, and making sure that the online catalog was accurate.
Why did you choose to enroll in a bootcamp for coding?
I was interested in a career change. I had some coding experience, and knew I wanted to change careers. I was disappointed by the time-consuming and expensive process of researching post-Bachelor degrees. Bootcamps offered a way to learn technical skills in a fraction the time.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
I was not sure if the program was right for me or if it would teach me the skills necessary to pursue a career as a technie. I did some research on the Seattle bootcamps and read about people’s experiences with job hunting after graduation. It seems that bootcamps are about how hard you work.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
Open House was a great opportunity to meet students and instructors. I found the atmosphere welcoming and friendly, and was impressed by the student population. I left the Open House feeling happy and excited!
How was it to prepare for bootcamp? How did you prepare for the bootcamp?
I signed up right before the deadline, so I was trying my best to get everything in order. It’s not easy to organize for bootcamp. The weekend before the start of the bootcamp was spent doing pre-course work. This included some reading, coding exercises and an introduction to algorithms. It was like preparing for the first day at school. I did some “back-to school” shopping and bought a notebook, pens, and a pencil.
Talk us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts were difficult?
The first few weeks were all about getting used to the program and improving my coding skills. I was often the first person to arrive on campus. This allowed me to get used to the schedule and helped me transition into the day, especially for the interactive algorithm sessions, lectures, group work, and group work.
The hardest thing I faced, especially at the beginning, was learning and remembering everything. It was difficult to grasp and apply everything. You realize that there is some code you can internalize and others that you need to conceptually understand.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
Failure. Every instructor stressed the importance of failing when learning code. The Dojo encouraged failure and made it acceptable. Working together to solve a problem was the best way for coding to learn. You either found a solution or consulted with an instructor so you didn’t waste time trying to figure out what the solution was.
Do you have any funny stories to share about bootcamp? Make friends! Do you have fond memories?
Students are encouraged to take a break from coding on Thursdays at Bellevue’s campus. There was always a game called Werewolf. Although I only played it a few times, it was interesting to see the reactions of the players when they accidentally killed a villager or found a werewolf.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
I felt confident in my abilities towards the end of the bootcamp. I was uncertain about my job prospects because I hadn’t spent any time researching company websites or job boards.
Did the bootcamp provide you with anything other than coding skills?
The most impo

Pre-Dojo:
As a driver of a delivery truck
He wanted more from life and believed he had untapped potential

After Dojo:
Amazon Software Developer Apprentice
He has a strong professional network that he used to land his current position
He dreams of opening his own bootcamp in future

Program: Three Full Stack Bootcamp in Bellevue (WA).
Testimonial:
The support I received for all my interview preparation was incredible. Chinni, my Career Services Manager, was very patient with me and helped me to pass my interview. I was not only an ace, but they also said that I was one the most prepared candidates that day.
Please tell us a bit about yourself. What were you doing professionally before you started bootcamp?
I am a big football fan. I enjoy running, hiking, and Rick and Morty. Before Coding Dojo, my job was as a truck driver.
Why did you choose to enroll in a bootcamp for coding?
I wanted more in my life. I felt that I had more potential than the life I was living now.
What were your fears and doubts that prevented you from enrolling? How did you overcome them?
I was willing to take a big risk and quit my job. I was earning a decent living, but then I had to be prepared to make zero. That was what kept me from moving forward, but then I realized that I had to quit. I started learning Javascript. I was so excited to find a bootcamp.
What was the secret to Coding Dojo’s success? Why did you choose Coding Dojo over other programs?
Coding Dojo was the only provider of classes through Christmas, to be honest. The Career Services and, more importantly, Chinni were the only things that stood out. I was able to get amazing support for my interview preparation. She did a lot of practice with us and I was able ace my interview. I was not only an ace, but also one of the most prepared candidates that day.
How was it to get ready for bootcamp? Were you nervous, excited, etc.? How did you prepare?
I had been to another boot camp before I came to the Dojo so I didn’t have the nerves to learn the curriculum. However, I was nervous about meeting people, which is the most important part the bootcamp. This is where you build your network. It all starts there. A reference from a bootcamp was one of the reasons I got this amazing job.
Talk us through the first few weeks of the program. Which parts were your favorites? What parts were difficult?
I enjoyed the lectures of my instructors, especially Sadie’s. She explained Django in the most simple way possible. I was able to understand the framework in a very deep way. C# was difficult to understand at first.
What were your strategies for overcoming the difficulties you faced?
Accept failure and learn from it. There is no perfect person in the world. People who fail and fail often are the ones who succeed. Failure is an opportunity to learn, and an opportunity for improvement. Learn to love failure when it comes to programming and to love bugs. Don’t lose heart and don’t be afraid to try new approaches.
How did you feel about your job prospects and skills as you neared graduation?
Because of my mindset, I felt like I could conquer everything.
How did your job hunt go? How did you land a job at your current job?
It was a great experience and I was offered a job as a Software Developer at Amazon within a few months of graduating.
Did the bootcamp provide you with anything other than coding skills?
You will be able to manage deadlines like no one else.
What advice would you give to others interested in coding bootcamps, or just starting one?
Why wait? There’s a vast tech industry that is looking for diverse brains. I used to believe that I couldn’t do this because I was a truck driver. Boy was I wrong. It would be amazing to see where the people who make up this tech world come from.
What are your future goals and dreams, in five or ten years?
One day, I dream of starting my own coding bootcamp! Coding Dojo bootcamp is a program that will transform your life and teach you how to code. We offer online and onsite courses as well as part-time and complete-time online courses. We offer scholarships, financing options, and other tuition assistance programs to help with financial barriers. There is no better time to invest in your future and yourself than now! Click this link to schedule a 15 minute exploratory session with one our Admissions representatives.