Code Platoon Reviews
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Skyelah Bay
As a veteran this is one of the best coding schools you can get into.
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First and foremost, I want to give hats off to the instructors; Both Jon and Josh are extremely diligent and willing to take the time to answer questions you might have, and are receptive to feedback. There was never a single point during my time at Code Platoon that I felt like I couldn't go to them with concerns, or even technical questions.
Pros -
In terms of the workload, it IS a lot of work, if that puts you off, then this probably isn't the program for you, but if you're willing to put in that work in terms of studying the material, trying to apply it outside of just the homework, and actually take it seriously, you will do well. On that note, it's not entirely one sided: The TA's are a mixture of industry devs, as well as prior students, and that's not something that's forced, it's because they ACTUALLY do care and want to be there, which is pretty awesome compared so some other bootcamps I've read stories about.
As for non technical aspects, there are multiple occasions throughout the course where we got to visit other companies and sort of gain insight into how being a dev is on the other side, so that was a pretty huge advantage for me personally.
In terms of soft skills development, they do an excellent job of giving you insight on how technical interviews work, and some practices to get into before you actually start applying for real. Probably one of the biggest plusses in my opinion.
Cons -
Again, it IS a lot of work. You will probably be spending not only the 9-10 hours a day you're in class, but an additional 3-4 hours a night outside of class every day to practice, learn new material, etc. And there were instances later in the course where I was going off of just a few hours of sleep. I chose to make that decision, but I put it as a negative simply because it is something to consider before applying.
Towards the end of the course the schedule gets kind of hectic; you'll be preparing for projects, still studying material, and visiting places / growing your network, so for me that was somewhat difficult to manage all in such a short time.
If you have any questions or just want some personal insight from a graduate, you can email me at
skyelahbay@gmail.com, and I'll reply when I can. All in all I was impressed, I would recommend this course to any prior veteran who is thinking about it (and their spouses now! :) )
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E
Student
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It was exactly what I as an aspiring developer needed to get me over the hump in my understanding of web development. It lasted 4 months. Was intense but with preparation and grit most can benefit immensely especially for veterans. It got me in the door as an front end developer intern at a large company in Chicago. I would do it all over again if I had to. The program focuses on Ruby and JavaScript with plans to transition to python next year.
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Daniel T.
Review Code Platoon
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I am currently a student at Code Platoon in my 13th week of the program. The program is fully immersive, and takes someone with no coding experience to employable within 4 months. I personally had no prior coding experience besides the prework for the course. Throughout the course, I have learned a tremendous amount, and now feel comfortable interviewing for Junior Web Developer Jobs (which usually start at $60,000). Jon, the lead instructor, does a great job explaining the material. Addittionally, there are multiple TAs in the classroom at all times, helping students with the material.
If you are willing to put in the hard work, with very long days, they will do everything they can to help you learn the material and become employable. Rod, the owner of Code Platoon has a personal relationship with every student, and commits to help all current and former students. Overall, this is the absolute best program for any veteran looking to be a computer programmer.
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Jyn
great experience with code platoon
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I'm an Army Reserve on active duty and I just graduated the course a week ago.
1. Unlimited support and resources.
People here are ready to dedicate themselves to help you success. Rod(founder) will help you to provide any help you need and Jon(instructor) always welcome students to come to him with whatever. Plus, there are countless mentors and assistant teachers for more help! (both in person and in remote)
2. Scholarships
I was covered roughly 80% of the $13,000 tuition and Code Platoon offered the second scholarship for women in tech.
3. Curriculum
I loved how it was well-mixed with the programming knowledge and soft skills such as resume building and interview practice.
4. People and Community
A class is consist of 7-12 students. Each individuals get to know everyone via pair-programing and group projects. Whenever I was in a panic zone, my classmates were the ones who told me that I can do it. I can’t explain how meaningful they were to me (still are lol) to break through each struggles just like battle buddies.
And if by any chance I get stuck while chasing my passion and success as I knew it, I already have a community to go for advise!
I’m very proud of myself as an ALUMNI and I’ve learned so much in less than a half of a year.
Good luck to everyone!
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Michael Cessaro
Here's what you need to know about Code Platoon
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As I write this, I am trying to answer two questions: What do I wish I knew 14 weeks ago? What do I need to tell another veteran to set them up for success?
First I can not say this more clearly. THIS PROGRAM IS NOT A SCAM. I know you already googled it, we all did. It is the real deal. Rod Levy and CP are the only veteran organization I have ever worked with that delivered 100% on their promise. "If you come everyday and work hard, we will make you into a dev[eloper].”
Rod's lead instructor Jon Young, is a great guy with a ton of character. He isn't just knowledgeable, he genuinely cares that you learn the material, and ultimately about your success; his commitment to this is as clear at week 1 as is it in your final projects.
My own thoughts to set you up for success:
- Buy into the program. There will be changes. Uncertainty. A ton of sleep deprivation. More than healthy doses of stress. Internship opportunities may disappear and others will pop up to replace them weeks later. You may not know what’s going on behind the scenes, your job is to focus on learning. Stay the course. Trust in Rod. Keep your head down. And put in work.
- Learn as much as you can before coming to the course. The pre-work is great, and for some people its enough. Personally, I had no prior coding experience what-so-ever. There are limitless resources on-line. Simply put, you cannot spend enough time sitting at your computer, doing and re-doing algorithms in both Javascript and Ruby. If you have the time, putting in the work early will pay dividends later. There are no short cuts here.
- You’ll hear this phrase again, but “expose your ignorance.” Despite what others may project with the words like “It’s logical, easy, makes sense” this is not an easy subject matter. Developers do not get paid so well because of how easy this is to understand. When you are lost - which will happen frequently - let it be known immediately. Falling behind and making it up after class is not an option due to simple time constraints and the need for sleep.
- Financial planning is essential during the course. Finances are one of the main stressors for most people. You simply don’t need that in your life while trying to take on this task. Plan thoroughly.
- This course is a marathon, not a sprint. Treat it as such. Eat healthy. get in some exercise, and sleep. It will make you a better student and sustain you till the end.
- If you have any questions - engage Rod. He’s a highly intelligent, and resourceful businessman, turned NFP leader. He will help you, and he’s exactly the kind of person you want on your team.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me on linkedin.
- Buy into the program. There will be changes. Uncertainty. A ton of sleep deprivation. More than healthy doses of stress. Internship opportunities may disappear and others will pop up to replace them weeks later. You may not know what’s going on behind the scenes, your job is to focus on learning. Stay the course. Trust in Rod. Keep your head down. And put in work.
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Brian
Great Program
I just completed Code Platoon with the Bravo cohort. It was a great opportunity and I could not have asked for more. Jon is a great teacher and all of the TAs were very helpful/knowledgeable. It is a great way to get your foot in the door of the tech world.
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Daniel Kweon-Lee
Can't ask more!
I currently serving Army National Guard. I can't thank enough to the program. I didn't know any coding before I join the program. It is intense but I got more than I paid for and expected it. I got a job offer before I graduate it because of Code Platoon. If you are a vet, currently serving or a spouse and interested in coding please consider this program!
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Mike LaFalce
Great Program, Great Value
I'm an Air Force vet who had no coding experience when I satrted Code Platoon. I dedicated myself 100% to the process and worked very hard. Now, I am able to code and create software.
The curriculm is very well thought out and you will learn languages and frameworks that employers are seeking.
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Derreck
Experience with First Cohort
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As somebody who is studying computer science and attended the first cohort of CodePlatoon, I found the bootcamp to be a great way to break into the industry. The 8 of us that graduated the 16 week program gained a deeper understanding of many of the in demand skills employers want and we were all placed in internships that gave us some crucial developer experience. Highly recommend to any veteran seriously interested in a career as a developer.
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Anonymous
Code Platoon Boot Camp Review
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Code Platoon's Coding Bootcamp was an incredible experience. I went from knowing next-to-nothing about code, to creating a full-stack application without the use or assistance of A.I., which was incredibly confidence boosting. Code Platoon not only teach the fundamentals of coding, but also teaches students how they can code and create applications without the use of A.I., as well as how one can ethically and efficiently use A.I. when coding. Learning both sides of how one can code has been a great experience. -
Anonymous
amazing career services, terrible evening and weekend program
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I am currently an electrical engineer and wanted to make a career change and found this program as a veteran. I wanted to be able to work remote from anywhere in the world. From what I hear/heard, the fulltime in person-onsite program is amazing, the instructors are awesome and you get the real experience in addition to the world class career services program and personnel.
DO NOT GET ME WRONG, their career services constantly posts jobs and WILL get you the interviews, they will help you practice and get the resume squared away. However, I took the evening and weekend course.... which did not teach us much apart from what you can currently already google, ie. github pulls/push, simple database setups, which is ok I guess.
I had hoped and read the website and really thought they were going to teach us how to code, how to build things and walk us through some algorithms and explain what was going on. This was not the case at all, they had 1 solid instructor, 2 that were super nice and cool but super tired and disorganized due to balancing their careers/home lives which led to us not getting the help I thought we would, and they have 1 instructor who will go out of his way to not teach you, but will insult/demean you and make you feel bad for not knowing anything... In fact this problem instructor was reported many times and is still working there, he was a former teacher, but I could not tell because he is very unprofessional and it seems like he hates his job.
The course was very messy, teachers showed up unprepared and you will basically get a walk through of a readme page and get put into a zoom group to "figure it out" on your own. You pretty much will be told not to use AI, but will have to use AI because they dont really explain much. I don't mean that they walked through some code, explained an algo, and then left you to figure the rest... no, they just straight up leave you to a challenge, google/AI, then expect you to already know what is going on.
The problem/unprofessional instructor loved dressing down people and insulting us and pretty much told us he wanted to teach people who already knew how to code to show up and was very vocal about his disappointment with us..., the only successful people in the course who were tracking that I saw through the E&W cohort were those that were already somehow in the industry (sysadmin, software QA, or program managers in tech)....
I can honestly say I did not learn much aside from how to push/ pull repos, copy past code, and how to use AI to teach me to code. The instructors also made it very clear that the job market is not good at all and that we were entering a very harsh environment, they said they werent here to get us a job... this isnt some jobs skill mill - their words... and they said, hey man take what you can get, entry level help desk... whatever... its rough out here.
I dont know if its job security for them to not teach us and "flood" the market with more talent making their jobs insecure... but it sure felt like they did not want to teach us, with the exception of the 1 solid instructor.
I would highly recommend the full time version in person/online if they offer it, everyday with those instructors is supposed to be solid. I also will not take away anything from their career services, those folks are amazing, the students you'll meet will be solid and cool. I would NOT recommend the evening and weekend course in the least bit. That is coming from an already successful electrical engineer with 2 masters and in a Doctoral program... They need to remove that instructor, dont waste your time on the evening and weekend course if he's there because he wont be teaching you, save your 500 dollar deposit and gi bill/VR&E
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Anonymous
Great Program
I learned more than I ever thought I could and made a lot of great friends! Curriculum is detailed, projects are relevant, and instructors listen to feedback. Got to work on amazing projects with amazing people. -
Anonymous
Fullstack Software Engineering + AI Dev were a fantastic experience!
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Code Platoon obviously focuses on Software Engineering for fullstack development, but with the growing rate of AI Code Platoon has done a great job of balancing the fundamentals of software engineering while incorporating and layering on AI as an enabler to be more effective both in learning and in development. Additionally, they provide resources I didn't even expect for soft skills related to things like individual resume mentors, interview (both technical and behavioral) prep, project management, product managers as well as agile methodology and team collaboration. Couldn't recommend more. -
Anonymous
Amazing Experience With Code Platoon
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I took the time to research coding boot camps and consistently I kept hearing great things about Code Platoon. Especially at a time when there have been so many horrendous things coming out about coding boot camps taking money from students and not delivering on what they promised. This boot camp is different. There is camaraderie just like in the military. And as a military spouse, we are treated with the same respect as veterans and those that are using Skillbridge to learn. This boot camp is intense and not for the faint of heart. I would recommend everyone to check out Code Platoon. I have grown so much in my confidence, my knowledge about coding and my abilities. You will not be disappointed, these people truly care about teaching you the right things and they care about you getting a job afterwards! -
Anonymous
Recent Grad
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Code Platoon is a tremendous opportunity for veterans and veteran spouses to learn full-stack software development. The instructors are world-class and will train you to become proficient in full-stack software development with javascript, python, postgresql, html, css, django, react, and more. The instructors and student body are supportive and focused on your success in the program. You won't find a better experience than Code Platoon. -
Anonymous
Amazing bootcamp!
This was an amazing experience. Staff including TA's were extremely supportive and have helped me grow into a full stack developer. I could not have learned full stack dev in such a short period of time on my own. The curriculum, instructors, and TA's played a major role in my success. -
Anonymous
Great experience, highly recommended
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I attended the Evening and Weekend program (fully remote) from January 2022 - July 2022. I had been coding pretty basic projects in sort of an IT help desk role for a couple years leading up to the program; I had no experience with modern frameworks or web applications.
This program was exactly what I needed to connect the dots between my fairly basic experience and the frameworks/principles/buzzwords that you see in so many job postings. An organized curriculum and time spent with instructors turned out to be what was missing in my self-paced journey prior to CP.
I also have to mention that working on projects with peers was huge upside to the program. Employers are curious how you work/code with others. CP emphasized pair programming sessions for that reason. This helped provide some context to reflect on during interviews.
After graduation, the crew that helped with the job search was incredibly helpful as well. They always touched base with me and encouraged me to refine my process and keep pushing.
I received an offer about 8 weeks into my job search. I wish I had joined an earlier cohort, it was a life-changing program. I'd recommend this program to anyone. -
Anonymous
An amazing experience overall
Code Platoon was an overall great experience. I learned so much, and talking with senior software engineers out in the field about the curriculum, they were also impressed with the stuff we were being taught. This is a great option for veterans, active duty, or spouses. -
Anonymous
Full Stack Software Engineer
Completed the Full Stack software engineer evening and weekend program. Learned how to use React.js (Javascript) to create the frontend of a web application and Django (python) to run the backend of the a web application. -
Anonymous
Great Program
Code platoon is an amazing program that provides a strong curriculum, top tier instructors, and informative guest speakers to transitioning veterans looking to get started in the tech industry. -
Anonymous
November Platoon Graduate
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My experience at Code Platoon was challenging as well as one of the most rewarding things that I've ever done. I started the 14 week course with no prior college, or coding/tech experience. I graduated from the full-time full stack software engineering course on May 14th, 2021. It was a very fast-paced, immersive program. I started with pre-work after being accepted into the program and that's where I learned JavaScript and algorithmic programming, so take the pre-work seriously and really focus on learning the syntax/basics, because we took of at a sprint on the first day. I am confident in saying that I feel nervous, but prepared to enter the workforce as an entry-level full stack software engineer. I'm confident in my newfound skills, but still have a lot to learn. The instructors are amazing and will do everything they can to help you succeed as long as you put in the time and effort. Your success really does depend on you and how hard you're willing to work for it. Along with the instructors, Code Platoon has some amazing TA's and mentors available for both moral support and help with technical skills. One of the things I really appreciate about Code Platoon is that they aren't just focused on teaching you to code, but they also want to help you thrive in your new career. They have what are called "Beyond Tech Lectures" that I have personally benefited from greatly, to talk about and offer resources for a host of helpful topics ranging from mental health to negotiating your salary at that first job. One of the things I think I beenfitted from the most was the interview prep and networking help that includes: mock interviews with volunteers from companies like Google, creating and building a professional LinkedIn account and resume coaches to help create and improve your resume. Code Platoon also offers career services to help you find a job even after you graduate and I've found these services extremely helpful. It wasn't easy and sometimes I felt like I couldn't keep up with everything we were learning, but I put in the extra hours and used the support provided to me through TA's, instructors, my mentor and other students to succeed and I did it. If I can do it with no prior skills or knowledge in this field, I genuinely believe anyone can. -
Anonymous
Code Platoon - Full-time
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Coding bootcamps are designed to be extremely challenging, fast paced, and rewarding. If you prefer watching YouTube tutorials and working on coding challenges at a leisurely pace, the full-time program probably isn’t for you. The instructors will explain a concept, demonstrate how to implement the concept with code, and then give you coding challenges to further ingrain the concept into your brain. Code Platoon does an excellent job preparing you for a career in software development. You’ll have access to career coaches, weekly “soft skills” briefings, and meetings with potential employers. Additionally, there have TA that will assist you with any challenges you may face. Though it’s a long and challenging program, the results are undeniable. You’ll have the knowledge, skill, and ability to create full-stack applications. If you’re on-the-fence about whether or not to enroll in the full-time program – just do it! This program is definitely worth it. -
Anonymous
Student
From start to finish Code Platoon has been an outstanding experience. The technical cirriculum is fast paced and well organized. The mentorship and community really make this option standout for military veterans. There are generally a number of guaranteed internships for about half of the graduating class, and great career search help for the rest.
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Anonymous
recent graduate
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I had zero experience in programming before Code Platoon. After attending the course, I was able to make apps with Ruby on Rails, React.js, and React-Native with ios. I was taught algorithms, object orientated programming, building servers, using git and github.com, http 2, and databases. This is a true full-stack developer course. The staff is great, they will accommodate veterans dealing with many issues. The founder Rod is absolutely doing this for the right reasons. Anyone looking to become a full stack developer and make connections with industry though site visits, internships which are for real and makes you ahead of the pack with the experience given.
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Anonymous
All around great experience
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Code Platoon is a great bootcamp to attend. It's very fast paced and challenging. I went to a traditional college for a few semesters and felt that the traditional route was too slow and was lacking in expanding on the knowledge required to succeed as a web developer. Code Platoon really hones in on and expands on everything you need to be a successful web developer and creating full stack web applications. They are very accommodating for veterans and have their true interests at heart. Lastly the internship opportunities that are presented at the end of the cohort are with really great companies and help new developers get their foot in the door for their first job outside of a coding bootcamp.
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Anonymous
The Right Choice.
I could not ask for anything better without being extremely greedy.
You will work long hours. You will be frustrated because it is intense, but it is worth every dime. If you put in the effort, Code Platoon will help you succeed.
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Anonymous
Code Platoon Alpha Platoon
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This program is great. Almost everyone in my cohort was working either full time or in an internship within weeks of graduation. The mentors you will receive are great. Rod Levy is an amazing individual who can trampoline your career into tthe next universe with his networking skills alone. It almost turns into a small community. Everyone is a veteran so there are commonalities between all students. I recommend this program to any veterans who have a passion for problem solving/software development and other veterans who are unsure of what to do 'next'.
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E
Student (former)
It was exactly what I needed to get my foot in the door at a great company as a front end dev. The course focused on JS and Ruby as a full stack developer. Ample preparation and dedication will get most through and there was always someone around to help if stuck. I would do it again.
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E
Student (former)
It was exactly what I needed to get my foot in the door at a great company as a front end dev. The course focused on JS and Ruby as a full stack developer. Ample preparation and dedication will get most through and there was always someone around to help if stuck. I would do it again.