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