Transforming Careers through Coding Bootcamps: Insights and Benefits
For decades, I have been coding with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript since the early 2000s. Back then, learning just enough to handle the job at hand sufficed. Over time, I picked up new languages like PHP as needed, never delving deep into any single framework. However, after a hiatus, I found myself revisiting the fundamentals, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and dipping my toes into emerging technologies like Angular, React, Vue, and Python.
Looking back, I realized that staying up-to-date with the latest coding languages and frameworks is like learning a new language every few years. It’s perfect for those who want flexibility and don’t want to commit all the syntax to memory. Instead, knowing what you need for the current task is enough, and referencing back to resources like W3Schools helps when you need a refresher.
Inquiring Minds Want to Know: What Did Enrolling in a Coding Bootcamp Do for My Career?
That brings us to a crucial question: what does attending a coding bootcamp do for your life? After speaking with hundreds of coding bootcamp graduates, I can confidently say that the experience is often worth it.
Employment and Salary Increases:
According to data from the 2017 Course Report Outcomes and Demographics survey, 80% of bootcamp graduates reported being employed in jobs requiring the skills they learned in bootcamp. The average salary increase was 50.5%, or $23,724, with an average starting salary of $70,698. These numbers demonstrate a significant improvement in financial stability and professional growth post-bootcamp.
Personal Success Stories:
Take, for instance, a General Assembly graduate who shared her experience. She meticulously ensured that her coding bootcamp was worth her investment by taking several steps:
Researching Reviews: She read and compared reviews on websites like Course Report to get an idea of the bootcamp's reputation and success rates. Networking: She reached out to past students on LinkedIn to understand their job placements and experiences. Financial Calculations: She calculated her return on investment, considering her potential salary gain after the bootcamp. Comparing Options: She found affordable bootcamps or figured out how much she could afford to borrow, looking into deferred tuition programs. Time and Budget: She made sure she had the time and budget to dedicate to the bootcamp without compromising her current job. Post-Bootcamp: She continued her search with the same intensity and prepared for technical job interviews.These steps underscore the importance of thorough preparation and realistic expectations when deciding to invest in a coding bootcamp.
How to Make Sure a Coding Bootcamp Is Worth It
Anyone considering a coding bootcamp should take the following steps to ensure it's a worthwhile investment:
Research and Compare: Use websites like Course Report to read reviews and compare different bootcamps. Check Placement Rates: Look at job placement statistics on websites like CIRR (College Introduction to the Real-World) to see real-world success stories. Network: Connect with past students on LinkedIn to gain insights into their job placements and experiences. Calculate ROI: Assess the financial benefits by calculating your potential salary increase post-bootcamp. Insist on Affordability: Find a bootcamp within your budget or explore options like deferred tuition programs. Balance Your Schedule: Ensure you can dedicate time to the bootcamp without risking your job or other commitments. Prepare for Post-Bootcamp: Maintain the same level of intensity in your job search and be prepared for technical interviews.By taking these steps, you can maximize your chances of success and ensure that attending a coding bootcamp is a valuable addition to your career journey.
Conclusion
The journey from individual learning to bootcamp enrollment can be transformative. Whether you're a seasoned coder like me or a complete beginner, a coding bootcamp can provide the necessary skills and industry connections to advance your career. By researching, planning, and preparing, you can make the most of this opportunity and turn your coding dreams into reality.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Start by exploring coding bootcamps and making informed decisions to pave the way for your future success.
Good luck!