How to Survive Coyotiv School of Software Engineering

(P.S. It’s gonna be intense, but it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life) (Music recommendation: “I Will Survive”)

• Be real about your expectations and set goals

The Coyotiv experience is far from your traditional education. It’s not similar to your nine-to-five job nor any other bootcamp you will see around. To reshape your brain to think like a software engineer, you’ll need to work a lot. You’ll need to keep your focus, be punctual, make peace with the ups and downs, and find the courage to keep moving forward. Having a clear set of goals and visualizing yourself completing them will help.

• Don’t let “imposter syndrome” take over your brain

Everyone doubts their abilities at one time or another, especially while learning new things. Actually, feeling uncertain is an expected and healthy part of this process. However, being paralyzed by “imposter syndrome” is much more prevalent in biased, toxic cultures in which a specific manifestation of self-confidence is equated with competence. We know this and try really hard to create an environment where everyone can belong and thrive, despite having some occasional doubts.

• Don’t compare yourself to the others

Do you really need the extra anxiety in your life during this challenging period? Let’s face it: It’s neither inspiring nor encouraging. The only comparison you should make is comparing yourself to where you were before starting. Focus on your individual strengths, skills, and abilities. As long as you keep going, you will have enough reason to be proud of your progress. In the end, you will make a software engineer!

• Take regular (and smart) breaks

Remember the famous quote the next time you are stuck on a problem: “Have you tried turning it off and on again?” Your time in Coyotiv will be filled with lots of problem-solving. It’s essential to give your hardworking brain some room to breathe from time to time, so it can recharge and freshen up. You’ll be amazed how often the solution comes to you the moment you step away from the computer! Take a shower, go for a walk with your dog. Meditate. Play a game of ping pong. Knit a hat. But preferably, stay away from the screen.

• Eat, sleep and exercise

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of staying fit and healthy during (and after) the course. Coding requires lots of sitting, and it’s never too early to develop healthy habits to balance it. It may be tempting to think, “There’s no time,” and yes, the hours you put in make a difference; but staying up all night working, not getting movement, and fueling yourself with just coffee will decrease the quality of those hours. You cannot reach your full potential when you feel lethargic.

• Ask questions (a lot)

Remember that everyone else in the room is going through the same experience, and they may have the same questions you find “too stupid” to ask. Be the one who dares to ask them! You really don’t need to struggle for hours on one small problem. Set yourself a time limit (let’s say 30-40 minutes) to work through the problem; try multiple solutions, and then accept that it’s time to reach out for help. Don’t worry; we will be there to support you every step of the way.

• Enjoy the ride

Despite the emotional roller coaster that comes with it, we believe Coyotiv will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Not only will you learn fascinating skills that will change your career trajectory, but you will also make life-long connections along the way and gain a new perspective about yourself. The hardships will soon be forgotten, but hopefully, all your rewards will remain with you. So make the most of every single day and don’t forget to have some fun!

• Now, you are ready to rock Coyotiv School of Software Engineering!

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