Code Fellows

Code Fellows is a great school built by honest, hardworking, feedback driven people who truly care about your learning experience. This is not a school that treats people like numbers to increase their ratings and revenue. They care about each and every student and understand that everyone has something beneficial to bring to the tech industry. 

Understand though that this is a very rigorous program and it will be very challenging. This is not a bad thing though, because at the end you will take a step back and see how much you have grown as a person. I cannot recommend Code Fellows enough if you are serious about learning Software engineering! 

I've waited six months post-graduation to give my honest feedback of my experience at Code Fellows. Not all coding bootcamps are created equal, and I hope this unbiased review helps you to decide whether or not Code Fellows (or a coding bootcamp in general) suits your needs. It may also be important to note that as of writing this (Apr 25, 2022) I have been a full-time software engineer for four months and my job is going very, very well. My previous background is a bachelor's degree in English, and a career as a freelance graphic designer (no technical background).

I started CF in May of 2021 having never coded a day in my life. Other bootcamps had entry-level exams or evaluations to test basic coding knowledge, but I felt a bit intimidated by those since I was coming from an arts background. The admissions team at CF insisted that they didn't have a screening/entrance exam because the school and staff believed the curriculum offered a way for students to learn programming without any prior knowledge. I found this to be extremely true and accurate.

WHY I CHOSE:

1. The instructional staff was diverse, friendly, and welcoming. They are very enthusiastic about how tech can change lives.
2. I was able to use G.I. Benefits to study full-time in a remote setting (check with the VA because remote G.I. Benefit standards and regulations are changing).
3. MODULARIZATION! This was one of the biggest draws I had with CF. Other bootcamps were set up as giant sprints, meaning that if you got sick during week 6 out of 14 and had to miss several days of class, you essentially forfeit your entire tuition and had to retake the bootcamp from day one. I didn't feel comfortable with that option. CF is broken into class modules (102, 201, 301, 401) and you can take a break or pace your learning out around your schedule.
4. Longer bootcamp. Many of the bootcamps I looked at were 12-16 weeks. CF is 20 weeks, and I felt that a longer curriculum likely meant I would learn more.
5. Language selection. At the 401 you are able to choose your desired programming language. Other bootcamps taught a specific language without giving students a choice, and I loved that CF let me have some say in my career, especially since when I started I had no idea what the languages actually were.
   
   

THE BAD:

1. Pacing. If you are not someone who learns quickly, or is motivated enough to research things on your own time, I do not recommend ANY bootcamp for you. The rapid pace is not exclusive to CF.
2. When looking for a bootcamp, make sure to ask if there is a minimum experience level for instructors. One drawback to CF is that they often hire previous students to teach certain courses, without those alumni having gone out into company or corporate dev jobs first. This could realistically lead to an echo chamber of inexperience people teaching even less experienced people. However, I will also counter this and say that some of the instructors at CF are VERY good and have been programming a long time. I definitely suggest doing your research on your instructors and planning accordingly. (One of the BEST instructors I had my entire time there was a former student and she was incredible at teaching fundamentals. Being a former student doesn't mean someone will be a poor teacher, but I'm giving an unbiased review of the school so I need to point this out).
3. To my knowledge, CF no longer reports to CIRR, which is an independent bootcamp audit organization. I believe many bootcamps stopped reporting during covid because of how their numbers/outcomes were affected by the pandemic, so I'm not sure if this is really a "bad" or if they plan on re-joining the council anytime soon.
4. Class size varies. I saw some classes that were very large (32 students). My class ended up being very small. This was likely situational, but you may want to ask what their current average class size is.
5. I wish more time/instruction had been spent on teaching us about different types of tech or what each language was best for.
6. Overlapping curriculum. In my cohort they were restructuring some things between 301/401, so we ended up having some overlap of concepts that were essentially re-taught, which isn't necessarily bad, but now that I'm in the field I see some improvements or concepts that we could have repurposed that time for.
7. NOTE: I do not know this for certain, but CF does hire a lot of former students as TAs (ever bootcamp does this), but I don't actually know if this is considered an "in-field job placement within six months" which is a stat they share to applicants interested in the school. Something to keep in mind, because I don't feel that working as a TA is technically the same as landing a full-time dev role where you're expanding your skillset. TAs are SO important, but so are clear and unambiguous outcomes/placements for grads.

THE GOOD:

1. Data Structures and Algorithms!!! I've met and spoken with junior developers who graduated from all different types of bootcamps, and it amazes me how few are teaching DSA! This sets CF above and beyond so many schools. Tech and software development has its own interview process, which sometimes involves solving a coding problem live in front of your potential employer (often your potential team lead). If you aren't learning the process of solving these problems, and learning about the data structure logic you'll be asked to solve, how can you possibly hope to land the job? Not teaching DSA is like sending a person out into the world to be an accountant without teaching them how to use a calculator. It just doesn't make sense.
2. CF teaches its students how to write unit tests. In my post-grad interviews, both potential employers were stunned to find out that I'd already been writing unit tests for months. It's just not something often taught at the junior/bootcamp level and it definitely set me apart.
3. The TAs are generally amazing. Some days the lab space can be crowded and you might have to wait a bit to snag someone, but generally speaking the TAs were responsive, eager to help, and even checked in later to make sure you were on the right track.
4. There is a robust post-grad job placement program and the alumni network is amazing. We have our own slack channel, share open job postings, and more. BONUS: CF has been around for a while, so many prior students are now in hiring positions, and they will reach out to recent grads to help place them.
5. Curriculum. Overall, I felt extremely prepared at graduation, and am currently very successful in my first role. I went from never having coded in my life to potentially landing a team lead gig at my current company within 12-18 months, which is VERY fast. I credit the structure and the curriculum at CF for making that happen, but it's important to note that I did not do the bare minimum. I studied for 12-16 hours each day, learned a lot on my own, and took a lot of ownership for my own success. The people I see failing out or not doing well in bootcamps, especially CF, are the people who expect instructors to solve all their code or expect the school to slow down the curriculum/provide endless resources/cater to their needs. If you are someone who makes excuses or does the bare minimum, you will not do well at any bootcamp.
6. The daily structure was great. You watch your instructor code live for three hours (with mini breaks), have a lunch hour free to yourself, then hit up your labs, which is essentially flexible time for you to research and finish your assignments. There is a great mix between solo and group projects.
7. You have to pass a whiteboard to graduate. This is nerve-wracking, but so great! It really teaches you to handle nerves which has helped me immensely at my current job. They also give you a ton of practice.
8. Your class videos are available to you forever. I've actually revisited some concepts while working at my current job.

TLDR:

I had never coded a day in my life prior to my first day at Code Fellows. I fell in love with programming, and now I'm fortunate enough to work as a full-time dev. Not only that, but my time at CF more than prepared me to be crushing it at my first job. Not only am I earning a life-changing salary, but my dev leadership has already discussed making me a team lead within the next 12-18 months, which is VERY fast for this industry. I've been able to solve some network-wide bugs, and I have a rock-solid grasp on coding fundamentals. There are pros and cons to any coding bootcamp, but going to Code Fellows was by far the best decision I've ever made for my finances, my mental health, my career, and my family. 

I attended Code Fellows in 2020 to make a mid-career switch to tech and am grateful for the experience I had. While the program was intense and the pace was fast, I always felt supported and encouraged. So far, I've worked at a startup and a FANG company and would not be where I am today without Code Fellows.

An awesome school. This school sets you up for success. It provides a professional grade development environment to multiple avenues of learning. The instructors from the 101 to the 401 level are outstanding and knowledgeable. 

I attended Code fellows in 2019 and wen through the software development track with python as my primary language. I was a complete novice, coming from the restaurant industry but Code fellows offered me all of the tools that I needed to successfully enter the world of tech. I felt like I had an amazing amount of support throughout the entire process, from staff to alumni, there is an overall feeling of community and support. I really felt like everyone was rooting for my success. I was able to land a job in tech within a month of graduating code fellows and am now at Oracle as a security engineer. I would never be here without code fellows and still, even years after graduating, feel as though I could turn to them for support. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Code Fellows.  The staff is knowledgeable, the culture is open and welcoming to people of all backgrounds, and the training is rolled out in a very logical and easy to absorb format.

I have no incentive to write this review or what I'm about to say. I'm writing this because I truly believe and want you to know: if you're looking for the best place to learn as fast as possible how to make software, this is probably it. Code Fellows has a surprisingly well-crafted curriculum that goes beyond how to code. A curriculum that I think works for people of any background. A curriculum that motivated me to spend about 10-15 hours per day for months on this subject, even if it wasn't class-related. Not everyone has that time, and that's perfectly fine; the important thing is that it tends to ignite people's potential, and I didn't get the sense that any of my peers were not giving it their all. I think the motivation the classes, assignments, curriculum, instructors, and TAs generate is a big part of that. I signed up for 101 thinking it would be too intimidating for me. I skipped the first 101 class because I was too anxious to go. It's fine. Just trust me! 401 will be over before you know it, and you'll probably have met and worked with some fantastic people in the process. I realize I used a lot of absolutes in this review, and I try not to do that, but I'm making an exception here since I don't know how else to capture the essence: this is the place.

I have zero background in computer science when I came here but after a few months of intense classes, I learned so much valuable knowledge about coding. The instruction team is super excellent. Definitely recommend it.

I joined Code Fellows for their 201, 301, and 401 courses, the last of which resulted in a certificate for Advanced Software Development in Python. It is plain to see that a lot of care and intentionality goes into the planning of this program. Each step felt like a natural step to move someone from a complete beginner to a career-ready Developer. That does NOT mean, however, that it is easy. Their courses are indeed challenging, but very rewarding. I truly believe that Code Fellow's goal is not just to teach you languages and tools, but to teach you how to succeed in the field in whatever role you are thrown into. I can't recommend this school enough and I can't thank them enough for the amazing support I received from the instructors, TAs, and staff. If you are wondering if you should or shouldn't...do it. 

I went into this from the beginning not knowing anything about creating a simple website. Afterwards i came out knowing way more than expected. Not only do they teach you how to create apps and websites, but they go into many different tools and frameworks. They also teach the importance of data structures, algorithms and have a career coaching portion that is extremely helpful. The course is built to help you along the way without holding your hand or giving you the answers. It was definitely challenging but in the end worth it. All the instructors want you to succeed and all are there to help you along the way. Even though it is online, there is a virtual classroom where instructors, TAs and classmates are to assist and help along the way. I never felt alone in my journey and am grateful for the support and knowledge i received along the way.

If you want a course selection that will take you from no coding to being able to deploy a website, this is the course for you. The ability to be in this learning process with a group is great. The continual focus on getting you ready not only on the coding front but also the getting ready for a tech job side as well. The TAs and the instructors will meet you at the level you are at. There is also several different time tables available. Full-time or part-time.

Code fellows provides a structured learning environment that prepared me for the real world! I would recommend the night classes if you are currently working and looking to make a career change. The courses are a bit fast paced but with it all being online you don't have to worry about a commute. The instructors and TAs understand the struggle and will take the time to help you. They will give you the core skills you'll need but Its your job as a student to crave learning and expand your knowledge from there. Build a network with your cohort because you will meet some wonderful people! After graduating I'd recommend pursuing a TA role with code fellows as you job search to keep your skills up, that's what i did to keep my skills fresh as i interviewed.

Amazing instructors and TAs! They choose their leaders very carefully, unlike other bootcamps. The curriculum is very thorough and quick. As long as you keep up, you will have a wonderful learning experience here! Even if you don't think you can keep up (like I did), they are extremely helpful and will do everything in their power to make sure you pass and have a great understanding of the course(s).

I didn't have any experience going into it, had never written a line of code or even known that much about computers. I completed Code 101, 102 and 201 and am progressing to two to four additional classes. I am very satisfied with the program so far and I have confidence I will be in the industry gaining experience in no time with the heavy emphasis on developing one's employability while going through this boot camp.  
 Also:
Don't hesitate to use your GI Bill Benefits through this school. The process has never been smoother, and this is my 3rd different type of school using it through. Be sure to use your GI Bill, apply for Vet Tech, and check your VR&E / VOC Rehab eligibility. 

Code 201 is the second module I've attended at Code Fellows and I was blown away with the course. There is such a high priority put on professional development and truly understanding what the industry expects from a developer. This is full-circle as well, from common syntax writing to specific job interview questions and professional core competencies expected of you as a developer. There's also dedicated time to review and update your resume based on the things you are learning.

The course curriculum scaffolds on itself and offers room for mistakes to be made and then eventually corrected.  No one is looking for you to be the next Bill Gates - they just want you to learn.  Grading is pretty lenient (not to the point of detriment - no one is failing you for a missed period/semicolon). There is often a collaborative group effort to review the day's/night's previous assignment so everyone can benefit from common mistakes or best practices. Reading assignments seem a bit much at times and were personally my least favorite activity, but even they offered a nice preface for tomorrow's activities and weren't solely "busy work". Last and definitely not least, there are so many opportunities for one-on-one time with either an instructor, TA, or another student to try and debug or just talk theory about the code. It really helps having someone who knows what their talking about personally walk you through their thought process for creative problem solving.

I gained a lot of knowledge on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in just one month with Code Fellows. And more importantly, the courses helped me to build up confidence and interest for me to go deeper into coding. The course was also invested a decent amount of time helping students to build personal connections with people who work in the tech field. I chose Code Fellows because I have a friend who took Code Fellows and works at Microsoft as a software engineer now.

This school is amazing. However, it is a beast to get through to the other side. People will struggle, some will quit, but it's not impossible. As long as you keep moving you can make it. Code fellows will teach you to learn anything and to believe in yourself. Nothing is handed to you, so this school is what you make of it. If you are willing to commit, learn, and work you will do great!

Prior to attending Code Fellows, the only experience I had with writing programs was at a Community College where I took an intro to C++. I learned as far as loops (not too far). Throughout the 101, 102, and part of the 201 I was learning the same things, just with JavaScript (different syntax). Near the end of 201 I started experiencing a plethora of new concepts and forced to apply them, I.E. Objects, Arrays, Local Storage / Data persistence, etc. I didn't realize how much they threw at you till I started hitting the stuff I knew nothing about. This class was perfect for me since I was able to dedicate my whole time towards this. If you enjoy coding and are able to dedicate yourself to learning in a fast environment, dedicating yourself to Code Fellows is the best thing you will ever do.

Prior to attending Code Fellows, I had absolutely NO coding experience. I had no idea what HTML and CSS were; and when I looked at even the names of coding languages, I saw alphabet soup and was extremely overwhelmed with the immense amount of information that I did NOT know.
I did quite a bit of research during my own search for a bootcamp: price, curriculum, course length, professionalism of the staff, reviews, job placement support, inclusivity, and the statistics of graduates getting jobs. I didn't make my choice lightly, and I am SO glad I chose Code Fellows. From starting Code 101 back in Jan, to completing Java 401 in May; I have had such an amazing experience!
The instructors are incredible, the curriculum is relevant and constantly evolving to adapt to an ever changing tech-world, and the course-load is extremely streamlined. I truly feel that I received a top-notch education with absolutely no reservations that I would do it all over again if I had to. 
Not only do I now know what HTML and CSS are, but I am officially a Java/Android Developer! With an app on the Google PlayStore!! As a full-time online student, it's been five long months of very intense course-work, long days, and many, many hours of coding; but I took it seriously, and it has all payed-off in so many ways!
I'm super happy to be in this industry now, and wouldn't have it any other way.
If I can do it, so can you!! 
Happy Coding!

Code Fellows is an awesome coding bootcamp! Even though everything is online right now, you still have an instructor in real-time that you can interact with and ask questions, you go to lunch and then come back to a place where students congregate (like a study hall but online) with their class to work on projects. You can turn on your camera or microphone and speak with the students at your table to help each other on a project or you can work quietly. The teacher's assistants sit on that "floor" and are ready to help you should you get stuck. They teach you industry leading interviewing techniques which is quite different from what you get from a traditional college. They offer full-time day instruction (days) and a part-time nightly instruction for those that are working. Also, last but most certainly not least, tutoring is offered (for a fee) through the school. They will match you up with someone working in the field who went through their program and may or may not have been an instructor (in other words, they were either an excellent student or an instructor for Code Fellows) but, what is so helpful is that they understand what it is you are working on and what they should or should not be teaching you for the particular class you are in. I requested a tutor and was paired with someone who went through the program and was also an instructor for the school. He is helping me iron out some issues that I want to be better at, such as debugging and to keep my code "dry". The school teaches in blocks so, you have 201 (foundations), 301 (more advanced), and the 401 (focus on 1 particular language and master it). Coding 201 and 301 are each 4 weeks long with about a 7 - 10 day break between classes (if you choose to go right on to the next course). Coding 401 is for 10 weeks and in a language of your choosing from what they are offering (this changes according to what leaders in the industry are looking for). I chose this school because of someone who went through it before me and who is now working at Microsoft.  They gave Code Fellows a glowing review and I can see why! I am living it, enjoying it, and could not be happier with my choice in bootcamps!