The Value of Coding Bootcamps: A Year Later
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The Journey from Unemployment to a Six-Figure Salary
You may have encountered tales of individuals who transitioned from being jobless with no coding experience to securing lucrative tech positions within months, all thanks to coding bootcamps. But how accurate are these narratives? Is there truly a way to acquire coding skills and land a high-paying job significantly faster than through a conventional computer science degree?
Having graduated from a coding bootcamp just over a year ago, I can confidently say it was the best decision I ever made. Here’s why…
If you prefer to view the journey instead:
Understanding Coding Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps are intensive training programs aimed at equipping individuals with job-ready skills in a short time frame. Participants dive into coding basics, familiarize themselves with industry-standard tools, and tackle various coding projects. These bootcamps cater to both novices eager to break into the tech field and seasoned professionals looking to upgrade their skill set.
The primary focus of coding bootcamps is to arm you with the practical skills necessary for tech jobs, contrasting sharply with traditional computer science programs that often prioritize theoretical knowledge with limited real-world application.
Bloom Technical Institute — My Coding Bootcamp Experience
Notably, my experience at Bloom Tech (formerly Lambda School) was remarkable.
Program: Data Science
Cost: $30,000 USD (Income Share Agreement over 2 years)
Course Duration: 9 months
Their motto, "Learn. Graduate. Get a job — or owe NOTHING," piqued my interest. Bloom Tech doesn't require any payment until you secure a job in tech earning more than $50,000 annually—an incredible offer.
After extensive research on similar bootcamps, I chose to leave college and enroll in Bloom Tech's Data Science Program in January 2020. This decision was a financial commitment that motivated me to pursue a career in tech relentlessly.
Curriculum Overview — Skills Acquired
One of the standout features of Bloom Tech and similar bootcamps is their emphasis on mastery over merely passing grades. Should you struggle with a project, you have the opportunity to retake that specific unit, unlike traditional colleges where missing a week could mean retaking an entire course.
Here's a brief overview of what I learned:
- Weeks 1–4: Statistics Fundamentals
- Weeks 5–8: Predictive Modeling
- Weeks 9–12: Data Engineering
- Weeks 13–16: Machine Learning
- Weeks 17–20: Computer Science
- Weeks 21–24: Labs (Hands-on projects in teams)
Applying for Jobs After the Bootcamp
I graduated from Bloom Tech in October 2020 and immediately began my job search. Like many newcomers, I faced numerous rejections, leading me to worry that tech companies would overlook me due to my lack of a traditional computer science degree.
However, I discovered the invaluable support provided by bootcamp career services.
The Essential Role of Career Services
Most coding bootcamps, particularly Bloom Tech, employ dedicated career counselors whose primary goal is to help you secure a job. They assist with:
- Crafting standout resumes
- Reviewing and refining resumes for better outcomes
- Scouting the job market for suitable roles
- Navigating the job application process
- Preparing for interviews and perfecting your pitch
- Negotiating job offers
These resources are crucial as many aspects of job hunting have little to do with technical skills alone. Without the exceptional career team at Bloom Technical Institute, I wouldn't be where I am today.
My Interview Experience Post-Bootcamp
Throughout my job search, I encountered numerous interviews. Initially, I struggled to articulate who I was and why I was a suitable candidate. My nerves often got the better of me, leading to awkward moments, including calling interviewers by the wrong names.
However, I persisted, sought feedback from career coaches, and improved with each interview. Eventually, I became confident and adept at the process. I documented my interview experiences, including detailed reflections on each encounter.
Reflecting on One Year After Bootcamp
After eight months of job applications and four months of interviews, I landed a position as a Data Analyst 2 at VMware in June 2021. My total compensation was $101,650 (with a base salary of $95,000 and a 7% bonus).
As I compose this article, I've paid off half of my income share agreement, approximately $15,000 of the $30,000. Had I opted for a college education instead, I could have been burdened with over $200,000 in debt for the same job.
This experience solidified my belief that attending a coding bootcamp was the best decision I could have made.
Are coding bootcamps worth it? Absolutely.
Thank you for reading! If you found this post helpful or engaging, please consider hitting the clap button (up to 50 times). I hope this information aids those contemplating a coding bootcamp. Feel free to connect with me through the links below if you have questions or wish to chat. Keep pursuing your goals!
About the Author
Jack Ross — Data Analyst, YouTuber, Writer
I’m Jack, a Data Analyst at VMware (working remotely), an enthusiast of coffee, YouTube creator, skater, and more!
Where to find me:
- My Personal Website: A comprehensive hub for all things related to me!
- LinkedIn: Let’s connect!
- YouTube: I create videos as well!
- Twitter: Focused on Data Science, Crypto, and Skateboarding
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