Q: Tell us about yourself and why you decided to learn coding.

My name is Betony, and I'm originally from England, but I’ve been living in Spain for six years where I’ve been teaching at a British primary school. However, due to my status as a non-Spanish individual, my job opportunities here are somewhat limited. After seeing a friend transition into tech and become very happy with her career, as well as my desire for job progression and flexibility—especially with a new baby—I decided that learning to code was the right path for me.

Q: What has your experience been so far with the coding program at Altcademy?

I’m doing the full-stack program at Altcademy, and I have found the experience to be exceeding my expectations. It's been challenging and comprehensive, pushing me to tackle a wide array of topics. I appreciate the self-paced structure because as a new mother, my schedule can be unpredictable. It's tricky to get consistent study time, but the flexibility of the program has been critical for me. I’m also grateful that the course is financially accessible compared to some expensive options I considered in the past.

Q: How has Altcademy supported you in your learning journey?

Altcademy's non-live class format is one of the main reasons I chose this program—it allows me to study whenever I get the chance. The mentors have been available to help with assignments, such as the one involving Bootstrap that challenged me a bit. Their support ensured I could overcome any problems and continue to progress.

Q: What are your goals and plans for the future?

My plan is to hopefully find a job in tech around September, after I finish maternity leave. I'm looking to leverage what I've learned so far and will continue the program alongside starting a new job. I aim to explore opportunities in Malaga where I currently reside, but I'm also open to remote work. The goal is to achieve greater job flexibility and stability for my family.

Q: Do you have any advice for people considering a career change into tech?

My advice would be to just start and explore your options. It's okay to start as a complete beginner and to feel a bit out of your depth. The key is to remain persistent and take advantage of the resources available to you, like mentors and supportive communities. Also, do not hesitate to reach out for help and guidance—whether it's with your learning or job searching process. The tech industry is ever-evolving and requires continuous learning, which can be a thrilling journey if you keep an open mind.