Alexa Leoto

What were you doing before you joined The Marcy Lab School as a Software Engineering Fellow?

Before joining The Marcy Lab School, I was living in Philadelphia, working as a barista, and studying architecture. When the pandemic hit, everything was paused. This period made me recognize the instability in what I was doing, as well as the lack of work-life balance. I had always been interested in programming, so I decided to take the time to learn and explore that field further.

How did you find out about The Marcy Lab School?

After some self-study in programming, a friend recommended that I look into The Marcy Lab School. It seemed too good to be true, so I researched the program. It seemed like the perfect fit for my goals, so I decided to apply. The rest, as they say, is history.

What made you want to apply for the Software Engineering Fellowship?

The Marcy Lab School stood out to me because it offered a clear and accessible path to a career in tech, particularly at a time when I couldn’t afford to continue my education post-pandemic. After spending time in architecture and as a barista, I wanted a career that provided stability and growth while aligning with my long-standing interest in programming. Marcy's focus on real-world skills and professional development and the fact that it was free made it the perfect opportunity. Additionally, their emphasis on community and mentorship was a major factor that made me want to apply.

What are some of the main differences between Marcy’s Fellowship and college or a bootcamp?

One of the main differences is the personalized and fluid approach at Marcy. Unlike traditional colleges or boot camps, Marcy's Fellowship is designed not only to teach you technical skills but also to develop you as a professional and a leader. The program is highly responsive to feedback from Fellows, continuously evolving to meet our needs and the demands of the tech industry. This flexibility, combined with the strong sense of community and focus on practical, hands-on learning, sets it apart from other programs I considered. Marcy truly invests in its Fellows, ensuring that we are prepared for the challenges of the tech world.

What was been most challenging for you as a Fellow?

The most challenging part has been balancing the intensity of the program with my personal and work life. There were times when I was working 7-day weeks for months at a time, which made it difficult to manage everything. The Fellowship is rigorous, requiring a lot of focus and dedication. However, this challenge has also been a significant growth opportunity, teaching me how to manage my time effectively and prioritize my responsibilities, even in the face of such demanding circumstances.