Bootcamp Learning Plan
Looking back over the five weeks of foundations, it has been quite the ride. I feel challenged, competent and perhaps a bit apprehensive about what is to come. I know that bootcamp will be a whole other level and it may take time to develop the new rhythm.
Where do I see myself career wise? I don’t know. I’m not doing this for money or for fame or status. I would like to use my skills for something worthwhile. Something ethical that is about people and community and not about making another million for some faceless corporate.
I think my strengths going into bootcamp will be my ability to communicate and to listen effectively. I feel that as a group we have a pretty good understanding of one another. The Thursday catch ups were an inspired idea that has fostered the sense of togetherness.
Weakness…probably getting into a new and different rhythm. For me the afternoons may be the most difficult. Some people are morning people, some night…me I’m both but I’m never at my best in the afternoon.
Non technical skills—probably working in a group. I’m the personality who generally prefers my own company. I’m very excited about pairing though.
Expectations from you lot. I guess it will just be getting feedback, particularly if something is a challenge. I don’t see it being an issue. I like the Dev Academy’s holistic approach.
And finally, what do I expect from myself. Don’t stress, don’t listen to the inner voice that says you shouldn’t be here. Do communicate if I’m struggling and if I can help others to solve problems and encourage my fellow travellers.
“We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” – Seneca
“It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” – Epictetus
Foundations Learning Plan
The reason I joined Dev Academy was that I was looking for a new challenge and a change of career. Ideally I would like to get a job in the tech industry after I have completed this. To expand on this, it isn’t about money or prestige or whatever that motivates me to work in the tech industry, it's about learning the tools to make something worthwhile that will benefit the community. Off the top of my head as an example, something that could make people who have disabilities lives better. Grandiose, maybe!
My strengths as a learner are that I have always valued education so that makes me dedicated towards the learning process. I have processes that I follow that I find work and that aid my learning. My weaknesses are that I am prone to trying to do things too quickly and also I can spend too much time trying to solve a problem.
I am committed to putting in the necessary hours to finish my work on time, however I am mindful to look after my mental and physical well being and ensure I don't burn out. I will treat my fellow students and facilitators with respect and kindness and hope that I am treated in a same way.
As I said earlier, I am inclined to spend too much time trying to solve a problem. It isn't that I see asking for help as a weakness, it is just something inherent in my nature. So, I will only spend a couple of hours at the most trying to solve something before I reach out for help (unless I sleep on it and it comes to me in the night).
So far the facilitators have been excellent. Friendly, patient and kind and willing to help. It's what I expect and I don't see it changing.
To expand on that, when I had my first attempt at Dev Academy and things got out of my control, David was incredibly patient and understanding to what I was going through. I think the holistic, people-first approach of Dev Academy is to be commended and is quite possibly its greatest strength as an educational provider.
There may be the odd scheduling issue but I will notify the facilitators if that will be the case. However, I don't really foresee anything. (fingers crossed).