I'm in a bit of a pickle trying to choose between two coding bootcamps as I aim to kickstart my career in software development. I'm 23, currently living in New York, and aspiring to be a full stack developer. I've narrowed it down to:
**Option 1: Coderhouse**
- Costs about **$1,500**
- Runs for around **53 weeks** with one class per week (a more relaxed pace)
- Primarily targets the **Latin American market**.
**Option 2: Fullstack Academy**
- Priced at around **$10,000**
- Much more **intensive** and shorter duration
- Tailored for the **US tech market** and offers career services plus networking opportunities.
Both programs cover similar tech stacks like JavaScript, React, Node, and databases, so I'm curious about whether attending Coderhouse might make it substantially harder for me to land a developer job in the U.S. compared to Fullstack Academy. Do employers really weigh which bootcamp I went to, or do they focus more on my projects, portfolio, GitHub, and interview skills?
I'm mainly trying to figure out if the extra **$8,500** for the U.S. bootcamp is worth it or if I can achieve similar outcomes through the cheaper program by really emphasizing on my skills and project development. Any insights from professionals in the field would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Honestly, bootcamps aren’t what they used to be. Back in the day, they could really help you land a job, but the landscape has shifted. Nowadays, hiring managers often overlook bootcamp credentials. If I were you, I’d focus on building a strong portfolio and showcasing your projects instead of stressing about which bootcamp to choose.
To be honest, neither bootcamp will guarantee you a job. The market is flooded with computer science grads, and they often have the upper hand. If you truly want to pursue learning, the cheaper option sounds better, as it allows you to save money while still gaining knowledge. Just make sure you're serious about project work and improving your skill set.
I did a bootcamp a few years back, and let me tell you, the job market is a whole different beast now. Employers care much more about real-world coding skills and experience than the bootcamp name on your resume. If you're eyeing the $1,500 option, just make sure to build solid projects and really hone your skills. And maybe look for other opportunities to grow your network!
Could you suggest some ways to network effectively while learning?
What do you think would be the best way to build a project portfolio?