Student Spotlight: Kate

Let’s check in with Kate who is a student at LEARN. She has recently finished her 3^rd week of class. LEARN why she made the decision to switch careers to web development and how LEARN is helping her gain the necessary skills.

1. What made you choose to pursue web development?

I’ve always loved creating content—whether that be writing fiction, drawing, or even making music. Throughout college, I changed my mind multiple times. I started as an English major, then switched to graphic design, and at one point I even pursued being an ASL interpreter. While I enjoyed these things, none of them exactly clicked. Though, it took going through these changes that led me to having an interest in web development.

I remember it had started with wanting to make my own website to showcase some of my artwork. The templates given to my by the website I was using were average, and I had thought, “Well, what’s stopping me from creating my own website?” And so, I started working with HTML/CSS. There was such a sense of accomplishment that came with building something from nothing, and that’s when I realized that web development was definitely something worth pursuing.

2. Do you have any past educational or work experience in web development?

I took an online C++ class back in college, and then dabbled with creating simple websites in my free time. Though, I think I needed a more hands-on experience. That thought is exactly what led me to LEARN and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my choice. While it helps to have some understanding of it before beginning the program, LEARN is beginner-friendly and I think anyone could do well with the right attitude.

3. Were you nervous about switching careers?

Yes! I had to quit my job and stop working towards my degree to be able to attend LEARN. While it has been a huge risk, every day brings such a sense of productivity and triumph. I can happily say that I am certain with the choice that I made—and its only week three.

4. Why did you choose LEARN Academy?

I chose LEARN Academy because I truly felt like it was time for a change in life. Prior, I had just been working retail and taking college classes because I felt that’s what I should be doing at my age. But, I realized how unhappy I was and wanted to dedicate my time and energy to something that gave me a sense of accomplishment. LEARN stood out to me for a few reasons. The first being its location; I feel so grateful to be in downtown San Diego five days out of my week. Then, the internship aspect of it was intriguing. And to top it off, there’s kombucha on tap—so that’s pretty neat.

5. What week are you in? How are you liking your experience so far?

I’m beginning week three and I’ve genuinely enjoyed every single day at LEARN. The instructors are amazing and I’ve already made some awesome friends. I’m in awe of how quickly the program is passing and I even wish it was longer. Come the time for us all to go off to our internships, I’ll probably be in tears, but the happy kind. My life feels so different since I’ve started here at LEARN, and I really feel like I’m on the right track.

6. What advice would you give students choosing to enroll in LEARN?

There are going to be days where you understand everything, and then there are days where you don’t have a clue as to what’s going on. And that’s okay! While programming can be trying, there is no bigger sense of accomplishment than seeing everything come together (or even finding the bug in your code and simply getting it to run.) With a good mindset, I truly think anyone can strive at LEARN.