My First Week At The Iron Yard Coding Bootcamp In Atlanta

Why I am learning to code.

I was very excited to begin my classes last week at The Iron Yard in Atlanta.  I have been professionally designing websites for years but to stay competitive, I realized that I not only should know how to create a great looking website using online platforms, but I should also know how to code the entire website from scratch.  This includes knowledge of current industry standard tools and techniques.  At the Iron Yard I will be learning front end development as well as back end development.   The coding languages that I am learning include: HTML, CSS, Javascript, Node.JS, JQuery, and I have the choice of specializing in Ruby on Rails, Java, or concentrating on Front End Development by the end of the bootcamp. 

When they say "bootcamp" they mean it!

All potential students are interviewed after applying to the Iron Yard so that the staff can determine if you will be a good fit for the program.  During the interview they tell you that the program is an immersive program and that it is styled like a bootcamp.  They tell you that the learning will be intense and demanding.  Well folks, after the first week, I am here to tell you that they are telling the truth!  The information is coming at you at a very fast rate and you must utilize your best time management techniques to stay on track.  The course is hard, but you also have the assistance of the staff and your other classmates to help you where you may need help.  This is one of the benefits of learning to code in a cohort setting.  I must say, I'm having fun while learning cutting edge programming languages!

A great learning environment.

It helps that the Atlanta Iron Yard campus is a pretty cool place.  It has two kitchens in which we have access to bring our own food.  A VERY utilized ping pong table (a great stress reliever), multiple sofas, private rooms, and places to just code and chill.  Our coding projects keep us busy and it's nice to have a place that's comfortable.

Knowledgeable and helpful staff.

In addition to learning computer programming, the Iron Yard staff is preparing us mentally and professionally, but offering workshops and lectures designed to help us make the transition into working in the tech field.  We already have had representatives from local companies visit us and help explain what they're looking for in new hires.  Whether you're looking for a job with a local company or just trying to level up your skills in computer programming, the Iron Yard program is receiving a 5 star rating from me so far.  Now I really would like to say more but I have got to get back to coding... I have projects due!

Until next week...

​Stephen