S26:E7 - Thoughts on Degrees and Bootcamps (Johnny Proano)
Dec 13, 2023
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Johnny Proano, Associate Software Engineer at Hilton Grand Vacations, shares his journey from pursuing a CS degree to attending a coding bootcamp. He discusses the societal pressure to get a degree, his experience transitioning to a bootcamp environment, and his satisfaction with the supportive atmosphere. Johnny also talks about his experience preparing for an interview, receiving a job offer, and learning how to code with the support of his wife.
Attending a coding bootcamp instead of a CS degree is a viable path to becoming a software engineer.
Perseverance, motivation, and showcasing projects are crucial for success in the job market.
Deep dives
Johnny's Coding Journey and Career Transition
Johnny Pirano shares his coding journey, starting with his interest in technology as a child and his early experiences with coding while working as a DJ. He discusses how he initially believed he needed a CS degree to become a software engineer, but later enrolled in a coding bootcamp after receiving advice from a mentor. Johnny reflects on the pace and intensity of the bootcamp, the challenges he faced, and the hands-on projects he completed. He then shares his job search experience, including applying to multiple positions, networking, and the importance of showcasing his projects during interviews. Finally, Johnny emphasizes the significance of perseverance and motivation, advice for navigating the job market, and the joy and relief he felt when receiving his first software engineering offer.
Navigating Uncertainty and Overcoming Challenges
Johnny shares his perspective on navigating uncertainty, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and a challenging job market. He discusses how he relied on his support system, including his family and various coding communities, to stay motivated and optimistic. He highlights the significance of time management, seizing learning opportunities, and continuously investing in the world of software engineering. Johnny encourages aspiring developers to stay motivated, be persistent in their job search, and remember that all it takes is one opportunity to transition into a new career.
Lessons Learned and Valuable Advice
In this section, Johnny reflects on the worst advice he received, which was the belief that he needed math classes to succeed in coding. He also shares the best advice he received, which was to take action and not wait to pursue his coding goals. Johnny recalls his first coding project, a Mad Libs game, and the programming languages he used to create it. Finally, he expresses his wish to have known earlier that a degree in computer science is not necessary to become a software engineer and encourages others to believe in their abilities to learn and grow in the field.
Saron speaks with Johnny Proano, Associate Software Engineer at Hilton Grand Vacations. Initially drawn to code while building his personal DJ website, Johnny took the full leap with the support of his family. Johnny discusses his initial belief that a degree was necessary to become a software engineer and his decision to attend a coding bootcamp instead. He reflects on the differences between the bootcamp and college experience and shares his job search process after graduation.
Johnny is a passionate Chicago Bulls fan, music enthusiast, Star Wars fan, and a proud father with a love for the creativity of coding. He is a dedicated Software Engineer blending university education and a coding bootcamp experience bringing leadership, innovation, and a commitment to making a difference through code: “Think it, code it, make a difference!"
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