I'm 30 years old and have spent the last five years working in data entry and light analytics. Recently, I started teaching myself Python and JavaScript during the evenings, and I've discovered that I really enjoy creating and solving problems with code. I believe a coding bootcamp might be the quickest route to a career change.
With 2026 around the corner, I'm exploring various coding bootcamps, but the choices are overwhelming. There's a mix of online and in-person options, and some claim to be beginner-friendly, but I'm unsure what that actually means on a day-to-day basis. My main concerns are the costs involved and whether I'll be adequately prepared for developer roles after completing the program.
To those who have attended bootcamps recently, how did you decide which one to choose? Did you feel ready for job interviews after graduation, or did you end up needing to teach yourself more? How significant was the bootcamp's brand name compared to the actual skills you could showcase in your portfolio? Also, can anyone share insights on the workload? Is it feasible to work part-time while enrolled in a bootcamp, or do most students have to fully commit? Any tips for transitioning from a non-coding background without burning out would be greatly appreciated.
2 Answers
I went through Code Institute's Level 5 Software Developer course in May 2024, and honestly, I didn't have the best experience. The course felt pretty chaotic, and since it was entirely online, accountability was lacking. I believe that choosing a more structured course with in-person classes might be a better option for you. The most valuable part of my bootcamp was the project-based assessments which helped me build a portfolio that I could show during interviews.
No matter which bootcamp you choose, focus on networking! That’s how you'll land a job after graduation. Start making connections even before the bootcamp begins; networking is a skill you need to develop.
Exactly! Think of it like social networking for your career.
Just to clarify, when I say networking, I mean building professional relationships, not technical networking like IT stuff! But hey, knowing about tech networking is also a plus!