The University of Adelaide Coding Boot Camp

The Beginning 
Before I started Adelaide University's Coding Boot-camp, I was a professional hairstylist for 8 years. I enjoyed the Job, but disliked the work environment, and realized there was a ceiling on this career both monetarily and in opportunities. During my third lock down (due to Covid-19) I decided I should pursue something I enjoy and have a passion for. I knew that University wasn't for me, as each course included subjects I thought were unnecessary or not in my interest, and it would have to give up working hours which financially I couldn't do. I then saw a an Ad for the Boot-camp. This piqued my interest.

The Decision
I clicked the Ad and this was the beginning of a new pathway for me. I sent my information off and quickly received a call from a representative whom told me about the course and answered my questions. 4 things stood out to me. The course was 6 months long, which was a lot less intimidating than a full 4 year Uni degree. The classes were held in the evening after work, which meant I wouldn't have to give up any work hours. The course was online. Due to the spicy cough, classes were held online, which meant I didn't have to travel to the city to attend. Finally the course was affordable. I was given multiple payment options in which to choose from, to fit my situation. All of this helped me make the decision. I knew that if I signed up, I would be locking myself in to 6 months of intense work and study. I wanted to maintain working full time, 38 hour weeks, however the boot-camp recommended at least 20 hours of personal study every week. This meant I would be working all day, attending the boot-camp at night, and studying in any free time I had spare. Now even though I would be trading my time for the course, it was an easy decision. I had a passion for development and wanted to see it through.
The Course
Starting the course I was excited and nervous, but they made the induction process smooth. I received a checklist of things to do before the course began to get myself ready. This included setting up my machine and installing the needed applications, and signing up for the necessary websites. This was all very easy and straight forward. The first day we met our Instructor and our TA, both of whom were excited to meet everyone and very welcoming. From then we started into the topics and participated in activities, working along side our class mates. Every week we ended with an assignment that used all the information from the topic we had just studied, so the information was fresh in our minds, and easy to go back to if we needed a refresher. Some project assignments were done in groups so we could get a taste of what it's like in a team-based, real world environment. As the weeks went on, stress levels went up and down as I struggled with topics I wasn't as confident on, or powered through assignments, the end drew near. 

The Dream
About six weeks before the end of the course. I received a phone call. It was from a hiring manager offering me a Developer position! I was blown away and ecstatic. My dream was slowly fading into reality. I interviewed and 4 weeks later was at the desk of my new job. 1 week after that, I graduated the boot-camp ready to explore my new doors and opportunities as they show themselves.

The End
If you are thinking of joining a boot camp because you are thinking it's short and easy. Then this isn't for you. If you are looking at this course because you are passionate but don't think the full University experience is for you, this is a good supplement. You still have to apply and study, and it can be hard working a full time job, and studying almost just as much but if you have the drive it is possible, and you might even start a new career from it.