At LaunchCode, we love celebrating our alumni and their unique paths to success. We caught up with Nick Coronado, a LaunchCode graduate, to learn more about his transformative journey through the program.
Here's what he had to share:
What initially inspired you to join LaunchCode?
A friend of a friend told me about LaunchCode and how it changed their life. They went from being a bartender making roughly $20,000 a year to working as a QA tester for a huge company making $90,000 a year!
Can you share a memorable moment from your LaunchCode journey?
After almost dropping out of the course twice, I was “talked off the ledge” by my TA both times. The smile on his face when he passed my final assignment was so heartwarming! He told me I had what it took to be a good developer and never gave up on me.
How did LaunchCode help prepare you for your current role, and what are you doing now?
I’m currently a Software Engineer at Graybar Electric, writing custom code for our website, mobile application, and Salesforce. LaunchCode provided me with the technical skills to hit the ground running, which made a huge difference as I transitioned into this field.
"LaunchCode is a big commitment, but if you put in the time and effort, it can be life-changing. The course moves fast, so missing a class is the easiest way to fall behind. Do your best to stay consistent!"
Looking back, what do you wish you knew before starting the program?
I’ve always been tech-savvy and thought I’d breeze through the course, but I wasn’t mentally prepared for the amount of time I ended up investing. That said, it was totally worth it!
How has LaunchCode influenced your career goals or your approach to learning?
LaunchCode taught me that I can gain quality knowledge and skills through individual courses without breaking the bank. Since graduating, I’ve earned two Project Management certifications and two Data Analytics certifications, spending only $200 total. These additional certifications have greatly benefited my career.
What do you think sets LaunchCode apart from other educational programs or bootcamps?
LaunchCode excels in teaching job-ready skills that help students immediately succeed in the workplace. While a college degree offers valuable knowledge, it often includes material that isn’t directly applicable to the real world and comes with a hefty price tag.
How did the LaunchCode community support you during your training?
Twice during my course, I tried to drop out due to frustration and the time commitment. One of my Instructional Assistants was incredibly supportive and encouraged me to stick with it, telling me I had the potential to be a good developer. Without their support, I might not have finished the program or be where I am today.
Nick’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the life-changing opportunities that LaunchCode offers. Ready to transform your career? Learn more and apply today at launchcode.org/learn
