How to Ace the Data Science Bootcamp: A Complete Guide
I've graduated from offline Bootcamp in May 2021. Now I have been working in IT for almost 2 years. Moreover, I am still invited to participate in different events and activities of the bootcamp as a guest graduate. I am going to guide you, on how to perform well at every stage – from choosing a great program up to communication after graduation.
This information applies to a full-time bootcamp program with live lectures/webinars, not MOOCS (massive open online courses).
Before the bootcamp starts
Do your research
Bootcamp is a serious step for your future career (and even life). That's why I recommend finding out as much information as possible. Reading the bootcamp website and scrolling through social networks isn't enough. I highly recommend attending all the free events and being active there. Feel free to ask questions to the staff at webinars. I also recommend reaching out to alumni and students and asking them anything. Try to visit an offline campus if possible and check out the learning environment for yourself. This will help you get a complete picture in your head.
I took action once I'd read everything I could on the internet about the program I was interested in. I left a comment on their Instagram: "I'm planning to apply for the bootcamp. Graduates and students, please like the comment and I'll write to you". Several people replied and I asked everything I wanted.
I also participated in a free Python marathon. Participants were given a task every day and had to submit a solution the same day. During the event, I was active in a chat and stayed consistent. Everything worked out and I won the event. It gave me a chance to visit the bootcamp office offline and check out the atmosphere. I also attended an online presentation of the Data Science program.
Thanks to these actions, I learned everything I wanted to know about the bootcamp.
Record all your observations
It's hard to remember everything, so I highly recommend taking notes. Especially if you are considering several schools. These notes will be very useful for future comparisons and for making a final decision.
In the city where I live, only one place offered a full-time bootcamp, but journaling helped me keep track of everything. And I'd done everything right, choosing a great program with supportive mentors, a strong course syllabus, great career support, and great people around me.
Choose a program with an entrance exam
Sounds unexpected, doesn't it? The entrance exam isn't designed to torture you. The main reason for this is to check that each student has the necessary foundation to understand a fast-paced and complicated program. The bootcamp is also a way of checking that students are motivated and aren't toxic. Bootcamps are not only a place to gain some skills, but they also build a community of people.
Passing the exam means that you are ready to start an intensive bootcamp
When I joined the bootcamp, I also had an exam. The introductory part was about my motivation and who I am, the second part was about Python basics, and at the end, I had to solve 2 exercises (my very first live coding experience
