| | Broc Wilson | I attended the Software Guild Spring/Summer 2016. The bootcamp I hear has changed quite a bit, especially with cost. But during the time I attended it was great. I looked into other bootcamps in the Akron/Cleveland area, and this one stood out in a number of ways. I attained the goal I set for myself (which was getting a job) coming into the Software Guild, and I attained it faster than expected (two weeks before the end of the cohort).
Pros:
Unlike others I know who attended different bootcamps in the area, the Software Guild has quality instructors with years of experience in the field (some bootcamps hire alumni with minimal experience) who care about the students. There were multiple instructors and TAs at our disposal who did a great job of explaining difficult concepts. If one didn't explain it well enough, you could go to several others and end up with a good understanding. I feel that we also had a more in-depth education (they teach things local companies would view as pluses). I think their employer network is great. I gained employment through one of their partners.
Cons:
I feel that the flow of the program could have been better, like introducing certain concepts in a better order. I also feel that after finishing certain units in the course that there were missing pieces in my understanding. This could be a fault of my own in some cases, but in other cases things could have been explained better. Some things felt a little rushed for me towards the end, but this could be a combination of having to complete assignments, study for interviews, and continually learning new material. Though I received help with my resume and interviewing skills, I felt that it was just okay. You definitely need to apply to jobs and seek out opportunities on your own.
In the end, you code your own success. And what presupposes your success in this field is your passion for problem solving and the desire to learn new technologies. I had a Philosophy education in college, so I took courses in elementary and advanced logic. I loved those courses. The love for solving problems with logic took me in this direction. If you have a similar background or passion with a solid work ethic, you could attend a number of bootcamps and "likely" succeed. However, going to the Software Guild with that drive and passion will "ensure" success. I only recommend going into this knowing it's something you are passionate about, and have plenty of time to commit. |
