How a Coding Bootcamp Alum Expanded His Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills

While software engineering is a technical role, it is also a highly creative endeavor. In addition to creating web applications from scratch, Fullstack Academy Coding Bootcamp students apply their creativity toward problem-solving as they overcome challenges individually and as a team.

Bootcamp graduate Drew Hastings’ tech journey began when he discovered he had a knack for helping coworkers troubleshoot and solve common IT problems. His initial interest combined with a curiosity to learn more led him to enroll at Fullstack Academy.

“I had absolutely zero experience in tech before starting my bootcamp,” recalls Hastings. “My only real tech experience or knowledge was helping co-workers with computers or programs they were having issues with.”

From there, the rapid pace of bootcamp allowed him to build on his troubleshooting skills and interests. Starting with programming basics in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, the Software Engineering Immersive moves through increasingly advanced concepts using industry-simulated challenges and projects built into the curriculum.

“The best way to describe the pace of learning is fast but manageable,” Hastings notes. “I still have a lot to learn about all of the different technologies that we used throughout the bootcamp but I was definitely able to get a baseline understanding of each in the time provided. My [instructor and mentor] were both incredibly helpful in navigating the demanding workload and keeping us focused on the tasks at hand.”

Hastings rose to the occasion of learning to code amid a range of challenges in bootcamp and beyond. As a parent of young children, Hastings sometimes needed additional support to help balance these competing priorities. Luckily, bootcamp peers, teaching assistants, and instructors were happy to communicate and find ways to accommodate each other.

“All of my groups were always super understanding and willing to work with me to help get our tasks accomplished. That being said, the support that you receive from the instructional team and your classmates is invaluable. Working through challenging projects with the help of your teammates brought about a different level of satisfaction than working on projects individually.”

Ultimately, Hastings graduated bootcamp not only with new technical skills but with expanded soft skills—plus a new perspective on both:

“Besides just the coding skills in general, I would say that my problem-solving skills have certainly been enhanced through the bootcamp. I am encountering new experiences every day now and that comes with new challenges that I have never faced before. The bootcamp has helped to teach me how to uncover solutions to the new problems that I am facing with coding.”

For those considering a career change and looking for the right time to embark on that challenge, Hastings emphasizes that there’s no time like the present:

“My advice would be to jump in and go for it! If you have any interest in working in tech or just have an interest in learning how to develop some of your creative ideas then Fullstack Academy is definitely a great place to start.”

If you enjoy finding innovative and creative ways to solve complex problems, consider enrolling in the Fullstack Academy Coding Bootcamp. You’ll explore the latest tools and technologies to create dynamic software—all while reaching new heights in your ability to solve real-world problems. Learn more about coding bootcamp education.