Q: Tell us about yourself! Which city do you live in?

My name is Kimberly, and I live in Texas. I moved here about a year and a half ago with my husband for his job. I have a background in recruiting and had the opportunity to work with Google, helping them recruit software engineers. During my time there, I got to learn a lot about the tech industry, and it piqued my interest in coding.

Q: Is this your first time learning to code?

Yes, this is my first time learning to code. I had no prior experience before joining Altcademy, and I must say it has been quite a journey so far.

Q: Why did you decide to learn coding?

My interest in coding began when I was working with early career candidates at Google. Hearing about their experiences learning to code and seeing some of the projects they were working on got me intrigued. I was especially interested in UX design and coding. After much thought, I decided to start with coding and see where it takes me from there.

Q: How do you like coding so far?

I have enjoyed learning to code so far, although it has been quite challenging. Since it is so different from anything I've done before, I often find myself getting frustrated. However, I have learned to take a step back and remind myself that it's my first time learning this and that it's okay to work through it. I think I'm doing pretty well in the program, and I'm excited to continue learning.

Q: How are you doing so far in the program?

I'm currently working part-time and dedicating a significant portion of my day to learning to code. I recently completed the HTML and CSS course, which I found to be well-structured and allowed me to put my learning into practice through various projects. The Airbnb project was particularly challenging, but it gave me a great sense of gratification once I completed it.

Q: What are your goals?

My goal is to complete the program by September, but I'm not rushing through it. I want to make sure I truly absorb the knowledge and utilize it in my future endeavors. I'm still exploring my options, whether it be getting a full-time coding job or working in program management while leveraging my coding skills. I chose Altcademy specifically for its self-paced nature, allowing me to continue traveling while learning to code.

Q: How have you been utilizing the resources provided by Altcademy?

I must admit that I am a bit stubborn when it comes to asking for help, and I prefer figuring things out on my own. However, I've realized the importance of asking questions and seeking guidance from mentors. I have reached out to David, my mentor for the HTML and CSS course, and I plan to make more use of office hours and other resources as I progress through the program.

Q: Any advice for those considering learning to code?

Learning to code can be challenging, but it's essential to stay committed and persevere through the tough times. It's okay to ask questions and seek help when you're stuck. Remember that learning to code is a journey, and it's essential to enjoy the process while keeping an open mind about your future goals.

In conclusion, Kimberly's journey in learning to code has been an exciting adventure, and she's looking forward to discovering more about what the tech world has to offer. With a positive attitude, commitment, and hard work, she's well on her way to achieving her goals and making a mark in the world of coding.