Hey everyone! I'm 23 and I've been learning to code for about a year and a half now using online resources. My ultimate goal is to become a full-stack engineer. I'm feeling pretty good with CSS, HTML, and JavaScript, and I just started diving into React after hearing many recommendations.
Now, here's my dilemma: I want to know when it's the right time to start a bootcamp. I understand that having a solid foundation with the basics is crucial, especially since bootcamps can be quite intensive for 12-24 weeks. But I worry about constantly putting off the decision with the thought, "I'll start a bootcamp once I feel more confident."
Also, a tech recruiter mentioned that bootcamps are the second-best way to land a job after a CS degree. Is that still true?
3 Answers
That recruiter’s advice might have held some weight a few years back when there was a huge demand for devs. The landscape has changed though. There are tons of people now vying for software jobs, and even CS grads are struggling. Bootcamp certificates don’t carry much weight anymore—real skills and a good portfolio do. Getting a degree can help you land interviews, but if you don’t have that, you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd despite the strong competition.
Yeah, bootcamps had a moment, especially during and just after COVID when companies were more open to hiring anyone with coding skills. But that has definitely changed, and many bootcamps are even facing bankruptcy now. I wouldn’t recommend one nowadays unless you find a highly reputable one and do your research first. Checking out forums like r/codingbootcamp can give you some insight and reviews.
Honestly, I’d say at no point. Bootcamps can be a waste of money unless you have a very specific reason to believe they’ll work in your favor. Just focus on building your portfolio and learning skills that align with job requirements. They don't guarantee anything nowadays, especially with the job market being so competitive.
Haha, I love your honesty! What makes you so sure about that?
Thanks for the heads-up! I’ll check out those reviews.