Hi everyone,
I’m a recent bootcamp graduate currently seeking opportunities, but it’s been really tough— even finding internships has been challenging. I attended several networking events last week, and many people mentioned that companies prefer CS majors over bootcamp grads. Honestly, it’s been exhausting and discouraging.
Does anyone have any tips or advice on how to break into the industry or stand out as a bootcamp grad? I’d really appreciate any insights or encouragement. Thanks in advance!
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Hey jsy5888,
I really understand what you are going through as I was an instructor at a bootcamp until Jan of this year. Something I would always tell my students is that learning how to code does not necessarily pigeon hole you into being a software developer. There are a ton of jobs that, if you know basics of python or MYSQL, you are qualified for. Look for jobs like Solution Architect, Pre-Sales Technical Leader, post-sales engineer, customer success engineer. All of these roles require a basic knowledge of coding and can pay quite alot (even often way more than a JR Dev role). You learned a skill and that is transferrable across a ton of jobs. I’m sorry you’re discouraged but you got this!
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Hey! I’ve been there and you’re right, it is hard. What I did was search for projects or contract work to build my experience with. Due to my inexperience, I often had to do things for free or low pay. It was hard but it was what I had to do to get where I am today. I also had a BA degree in a non-tech field. I am not sure what your circumstances are, but if you have the bandwidth, try including part-time, project-based, or contract opportunities in your job search alongside full-time roles to increase your chances of getting something where you can build your skills and get paid. If you must do a free coding job, please at least have any job where you can support yourself alongside building your programming skills. Best wishes to you!
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