Switching careers can feel like a daunting leap, especially when venturing into the seemingly complex world of technology. For years, I was immersed in public health, a field I chose because of my passion for helping people and understanding societal well-being. However, I found myself feeling unfulfilled and yearning for a more dynamic and challenging path. That’s when I discovered coding bootcamps as a potential avenue for a significant career change. This article details my personal journey from public health to becoming an OpenShift Engineer Intern at Red Hat, a transition made possible by enrolling in a coding bootcamp. If you’re contemplating a Coding Bootcamp For Career Change, or are simply curious about making a similar switch into the tech industry, my experience and advice are for you.
Pre-Bootcamp: Finding My Way to Tech
My initial career path was firmly rooted in public health. After graduating from UMass Amherst in 2017 with a Public Health Sciences degree, I envisioned a career dedicated to improving lives through community health initiatives. My first role as an environmental technician quickly dispelled that vision. Spending days on construction sites collecting air samples felt far removed from the “helping people” aspect I craved. While potentially preventing asbestos exposure is important, the day-to-day reality lacked the direct impact I was seeking. This role lasted about a year before I knew I needed a change.
Next, I accepted a position as a community coordinator, which seemed to align more closely with my public health aspirations. I worked with residents in Section-8 housing, connecting them with vital resources and organizing community programs. While I enjoyed the purpose of the work, a sense of burnout crept in. I felt disconnected from my team and the larger company, unmotivated, and financially strained in expensive Boston. A quarter-life crisis, as some might call it, was brewing, and I realized public health in its current form wasn’t my long-term calling.
Seeking a different direction, I explored other options. My boyfriend, a software engineer at Google, suggested coding after I attended the 2019 PAX East conference. The intersection of health and gaming sparked a new interest. Coding had always seemed like something reserved for “super geniuses” – definitely not me, or so I thought. However, after experimenting with basic, free online coding tutorials on freecodecamp.org, I discovered an unexpected enjoyment in piecing together web page elements and styling them. JavaScript, initially intimidating, proved to be more approachable than anticipated.
Intrigued, I researched coding bootcamps in Boston and came across General Assembly’s (GA) 12-week Software Engineering Immersive. Its accessible location and promising job placement rates stood out. The cost was significant, a definite downside, but the potential salary jump in software engineering made it seem like a worthwhile investment, with the bootcamp cost potentially recouped within a year. After visiting the campus and speaking with an admissions counselor, I decided to take the plunge. A symbolic purple hair dye later (embracing the quarter-life crisis!), and I was committed to this career change.
Bootcamp Immersion: A Fast-Paced Learning Curve
My three months at the bootcamp were an intense whirlwind. It was a rapid succession of projects, late nights fueled by caffeine, and a newfound addiction to Stardew Valley – a perfect digital escape from the coding pressures. While the specifics of the General Assembly curriculum are readily available online, the key takeaways from my experience are worth highlighting for anyone considering a coding bootcamp for career change.
At GA, I was introduced to the fundamentals of HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Node, Ruby on Rails, Express, MongoDB, and React. Truthfully, the sheer volume of information was overwhelming at times, and the details of specific syntaxes have faded. However, the most valuable skill I gained wasn’t memorizing code, but learning how to learn and problem-solve in the world of software development. GA taught me about Git, version control, and agile methodologies – essential tools in any tech role. Crucially, they helped me develop strategies to combat imposter syndrome, a common feeling when entering a new and challenging field. Perhaps the most impactful lesson was learning to break down complex problems into manageable components, making daunting tasks less overwhelming. General Assembly provided a robust foundational understanding of software engineering principles, a base upon which I could build my future tech career.
Our first major project, a tic-tac-toe game with a Ruby backend for data storage, was assigned within the first few weeks. It sounds simple – tic-tac-toe is a child’s game, after all. However, completing this project within the five-day timeframe proved to be a significant hurdle for many in the class, myself included. Day two brought a coding wall, and I seriously considered quitting. Fortunately, the instructors at GA were exceptional. Likely veterans of “tic-tac-toe meltdowns,” they provided just the right amount of guidance to help me overcome the obstacle and regain momentum. This experience was invaluable, teaching me resilience and problem-solving under pressure, skills that are crucial for anyone pursuing a career change through a coding bootcamp. Subsequent projects, armed with the knowledge of resources like StackOverflow and the problem-solving approaches learned from the tic-tac-toe challenge, felt significantly less daunting.
Another vital component of the GA bootcamp was the career coaching, known as “Outcomes.” Each week included presentations covering various aspects of the tech job search: resume and cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, personality and technical interview preparation, job searching strategies, and even salary negotiation. Weekly homework assignments based on these presentations were mandatory for continued post-graduation career support. This career coaching was instrumental in navigating the job market and provided a structured approach to the often-intimidating process of finding a tech job after a coding bootcamp for career change.
Overall, my experience at General Assembly Boston was overwhelmingly positive. I felt genuinely supported and encouraged throughout the program. The instructors and staff fostered a strong sense of community, making me feel like a valued individual rather than just a number. They were invested in my success, both technically and personally, offering support and checking in when they sensed frustration. In summary, I wholeheartedly recommend the General Assembly Boston bootcamp to anyone considering a coding bootcamp for career change.
Navigating the Post-Bootcamp Job Search
Graduating from GA on December 9th, 2019, marked the beginning of a challenging period. Having been employed since 17, unemployment was a new and unsettling experience. The weight of financial debt to my boyfriend and mother for bootcamp tuition and living expenses grew heavier each day. Some days, I managed to commute downtown to utilize the GA space for job searching, but more often, I slept in, aimlessly scrolled through LinkedIn, submitted a few job applications, and then questioned the lack of responses. Graduating in early December was also unfortunately timed, as companies typically slow down hiring before the holiday season – definitely not ideal for a fresh bootcamp graduate seeking a career change.
My family dog, Jake, became my steadfast companion during the job search, offering silent support and furry comfort.
As the new year began, I resolved to intensify my job search efforts. I adopted a more disciplined approach to applications and committed to daily coding interview practice. Setting a goal to push at least one commit to my Github repository daily provided a small sense of accomplishment and visual progress (those green squares!). I also restarted exercising and began to prioritize networking, signing up for numerous events on MeetUp.
One particularly valuable MeetUp event was TechTogether Boston, a free 3-day hackathon for women and non-binary individuals held at BU’s Agganis Arena in late January. Having never attended a hackathon, I was unsure what to expect but saw it as an opportunity for networking and learning. The promise of free food and swag was also a definite draw! Despite feeling like a novice coder, I joined a team with other first-time hackathon participants, and we brainstormed project ideas.
Just before the hackathon, after finally gaining momentum in my job search, I advanced in the interview process for a full-time position at Grubhub in Boston. A college acquaintance who worked there had provided a referral. I was surprised and encouraged to receive a phone interview, then a virtual coding challenge, and finally, an onsite interview. However, I learned that another GA classmate was also a finalist for the same role, and it seemed like it was down to just the two of us. Realistically, I knew she was a stronger coder. While I gave the final interview my best effort, the rejection email was disheartening. It felt like a setback, a return to square one in my career change journey.
TechTogether Boston Hackathon: A Turning Point
Barely five minutes after receiving the Grubhub rejection, I walked into the TechTogether Boston hackathon. Surrounded by hundreds of talented and enthusiastic individuals and recruiters from major tech companies, I felt fragile and hesitant to get my hopes up again. However, having already paid for the Uber, I was determined to at least collect as much free swag as possible (and the haul was indeed impressive!).
One of the first company tables I approached at the networking event was Red Hat. To be honest, at the time, I vaguely knew of Red Hat but couldn’t articulate what they did. I spoke with a recruiter who was incredibly kind and approachable. She didn’t seem to mind that I was a coding bootcamp graduate, not a traditional computer science degree holder. Although they were primarily seeking summer interns, and I was looking for immediate employment, I submitted my resume anyway. The positive interaction with the Red Hat recruiter significantly lifted my spirits, giving me the energy to fully participate in the hackathon. I stayed up for two days straight, contributing to my team’s project: an app designed to send a discreet text message pretending to be a friend in need, offering an escape from uncomfortable or potentially unsafe dates – a concept I wish I had in college!
Late-night coding during the TechTogether Boston hackathon, fueled by enthusiasm and caffeine.
The Interview Process and Landing the Internship
Weeks later, I received an email from Red Hat Early Talent Acquisition, inviting me to video interviews for not one, but two different internship positions. I was ecstatic and genuinely shocked. Trying to manage my expectations, I repeated the mantra “I’m just happy for the interview experience” to avoid getting overly hopeful.
My interviews were scheduled for a Friday and the following Monday. My first interview, with my current manager, was surprisingly positive and conversational. Her friendly and personable demeanor made it one of the best interview experiences I’d had. We discussed my past projects, my bootcamp experience, and she provided more details about Red Hat and OpenShift. There were no technical coding questions. My second interview with a different manager was also positive, and we established a good rapport. Again, no coding questions, but I was asked a non-programming problem-solving question.
After the interviews, I tried to move on and manage my expectations. I continued applying for jobs and secured a final onsite interview at a small web consulting company. They extended an offer, and despite a slightly lower salary and a commute to a client’s office, I was seriously considering accepting, simply to end the job search. I requested a few days to consider the offer.
Success: Red Hat Internship Secured!
The very next day, an email arrived from Red Hat, offering me an internship position on the OpenShift Engineering team. Having two job offers to choose from felt surreal. While the Red Hat internship wasn’t an immediate full-time role, the long-term career potential at Red Hat made it the clear choice. My boyfriend generously agreed to continue supporting my rent while I awaited the internship start date. I accepted the Red Hat offer and respectfully declined the other.
In total, I applied for approximately 80 jobs between December 16th and February 20th. I received responses from only 9, onsite interviews from 4, and ultimately, 2 job offers. Landing the internship at Red Hat felt incredibly fortunate. I attribute it to diligently following the advice of my career coaches and persistent effort. While I hope to transition to a full-time role at Red Hat after the internship, I know continued hard work and skill development are essential. Sharing my story is intended to demonstrate that career change through a coding bootcamp is achievable for anyone willing to put in the effort. I am not exceptionally gifted, just a regular person who dedicated myself to learning and persevering. If I could make this career transition, so can you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Career Change and Coding Bootcamps
“What advice can you give me as a job seeker in tech, especially after a coding bootcamp for career change?”
First, ensure you’ve covered the basics: craft compelling cover letters and a well-structured resume (and have them reviewed by career professionals). Beyond these fundamentals, here are four additional tips that might enhance your tech job search after a coding bootcamp for career change:
Would you recommend General Assembly for a coding bootcamp for career change?
For the Boston location, absolutely, YES!
My experience is limited to the Boston General Assembly campus. Curricula, instructors, and staff can vary across locations. If considering a GA bootcamp outside of Boston, I strongly recommend visiting the campus, reviewing the curriculum, assessing the learning environment, and inquiring about the local job market’s perception of GA graduates. That being said, I have no reason to believe other GA locations are subpar, but my direct experience is with Boston.
The instructors and staff at GA Boston were instrumental in my successful career change. While I might have eventually transitioned to tech independently, GA significantly accelerated the process, making it possible within a year.
I’m considering a coding bootcamp for career change… is it the right path for me?
Deciding whether a coding bootcamp for career change is the right choice involves several factors. Finances are a primary consideration: is the bootcamp cost justified by the potential salary increase? For me, the projected salary difference would offset the bootcamp expenses within a year, making it a sound financial decision. Investigate if your current employer might sponsor bootcamp tuition for relevant skill development or consider rehiring you in a tech-focused role after completion.
Personal fulfillment is equally crucial. Reflect on your motivations for considering tech. Is it genuine interest, or solely driven by salary and perks? If you dislike problem-solving, debugging, or continuous learning, a tech career might not be a good fit, even with a coding bootcamp for career change. Ensure you have a genuine interest in coding or at least a tolerance for its challenges to avoid career dissatisfaction. If you have a technical background already, like mechanical engineering, a transition to software engineering might be less drastic. If you lack a technical background, as I did, explore free online coding resources extensively before committing to a bootcamp and significant financial investment.
Can I get a job in software engineering without attending a coding bootcamp for career change?
Yes, absolutely! Many individuals successfully enter software engineering through self-study, online resources, and traditional computer science degrees. However, self-directed learning requires significant self-discipline, time management, and persistence. One of the appealing aspects of coding is the vast availability of free online learning resources. It’s incredibly accessible and can be a valuable skill to acquire, even as a hobby.
Am I “smart enough” for a coding bootcamp and a career in software engineering?
While I cannot assess your individual capabilities, the answer is likely yes. The majority of my bootcamp cohort, with diverse backgrounds and skill levels, successfully completed the program and secured tech jobs. “Smart” in the traditional sense isn’t necessarily the defining factor. Diligence, perseverance, and a willingness to learn are more critical. I don’t consider myself inherently “smart,” but I am a hard worker and passionate about learning.
Women, in particular, frequently question their aptitude for technical fields. I certainly did initially (and still do some days!). Societal conditioning often leads girls to believe they should be naturally good at everything, leading to discouragement when facing initial challenges in new areas. This conditioning contributes to the underrepresentation of women in tech. A crucial realization in my career change journey was embracing mistakes as part of the learning process. Error codes are simply feedback, guiding you to refine your approach.
How should I structure my time during the tech job search after a coding bootcamp for career change?
Time management during the job search is highly personal and depends on individual circumstances. However, treating the job search like a full-time job proved effective for me. Allocate approximately 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week to job search activities.
I’m struggling to find a job after my coding bootcamp for career change. What should I do differently? Should I give up?
Job search discouragement is common, especially if it extends beyond a month with minimal responses. However, perseverance is key. Career coaches at GA advised us that job placement immediately after bootcamp is rare, with an average job search duration of around 4 months. Be prepared for a potentially longer search, especially considering economic uncertainties. The job search is a marathon, not a sprint. If your current approach isn’t yielding results, research alternative strategies online and adapt your methods.
If financial constraints become challenging during a prolonged job search, consider a part-time job for income and structure. The added responsibility can enhance focus and time management. However, be mindful that reducing job search time can potentially lengthen the overall job search duration.
What is the tech interview process like after a coding bootcamp for career change?
The interview process varies significantly across companies. My Red Hat internship interviews were primarily conversational, focusing on my projects and bootcamp experience, with no technical coding assessments. However, most other interviews involved coding challenges, either take-home assignments or whiteboard coding during onsite interviews. Coding questions were generally “easy” level LeetCode style problems, especially for whiteboard exercises.
Common interview stages include a phone screening, followed by a take-home challenge, and then an onsite interview, but variations exist.
How should I prepare for tech interviews after a coding bootcamp for career change?
Practice coding challenges DAILY. LeetCode (Leetcode) and Codewars (Codewars) are excellent resources. Master fundamental algorithms and data structures, including string manipulation (like palindrome checking).
While YouTube interview practice videos can be helpful, actively solving problems independently is more effective. I would sometimes start a YouTube video, note the interview question, attempt to solve it myself, and then consult the video for guidance when stuck. After solving the problem, I’d review the video solution to compare approaches.
Prepare for both “hard” technical questions and “soft” technical questions (e.g., “explain what happens when you google something?”).
Don’t neglect “behavioral interview questions.” Prepare personal anecdotes illustrating teamwork, conflict resolution, and handling challenging situations. Practice articulating these stories to avoid rambling or omitting key details due to interview nerves.
Do I need a portfolio after a coding bootcamp for career change?
While not always mandatory with a computer science degree, a portfolio is highly recommended, especially for career changers without a traditional tech degree. It showcases your projects and skills to potential employers. My portfolio (mine) serves as an example.
Unless you have strong UX/UI design skills, consider using a portfolio template. Affordable and free templates are readily available online. A well-structured portfolio significantly enhances your job application.
Thank you for reading my career change story. I hope my journey inspires you to pursue your own tech career aspirations and provides encouragement during your job search.
In a future article, I plan to share my insights on whether my coding bootcamp adequately prepared me for a professional software engineering role. Follow me on social media to stay updated. So far, the experience has been positive!
About Me
Beyond coding, I’m passionate about video games and consider myself a “nerd” in the best sense. I’m deeply immersed in fandoms, particularly Star Wars. I also enjoy makeup artistry, anime, and running. Unfortunately, pet ownership is currently restricted by my landlord, but I share my living space with my boyfriend and a collection of plants.
