Bootcamp, degree or self-taught: three alumni share their stories

At a recent alumni panel, our three guests—Nilsu, Andrew, and Martin—shared their very different paths into the industry. What connected their stories was not a perfect plan but a commitment to keep learning, adapting, and building … and of course, their transformative experience at Le Wagon Montréal.

From theory to practice: Nilsu’s path

While studying computer science and psychology at the University of Rochester, Nilsu realized theory-heavy courses weren’t enough.

Taking a gap semester, she joined the Web Development (AI Software) bootcamp in Montréal to gain something faster and more practical.

“Employers don’t really ask about your classes, she explained. They ask about your projects. And Le Wagon gave me projects I could show.”

Those projects helped her land a role as a software engineer at Deutsche Bank in New York, where she still draws on the teamwork and collaboration skills she first developed during her bootcamp experience.

A career pivot: Andrew’s story

Andrew began as a professional musician in Montreal. But playing for money drained the joy out of music, and after an injury made physical side jobs impossible, he started looking for a new direction.

A fellow musician suggested the Data Science & AI bootcamp.

“I have to say it was one of the most significantly positive decisions I’ve ever made,” he shared.

The intensive training prepared him for a career as a data scientist at Bell, and his portfolio project later earned him a full scholarship for a master’s degree.

“Every interview I’ve ever had, people want to talk about my bootcamp project,” he said.

Choosing speed: Martin’s decision

For Martin, time was the deciding factor. After a short stint in psychology and a few weeks in computer science, he realized a university degree would take years to complete.

“By the time I’d finish, I’d still just be looking for my first job,” he recalled.

Instead, he enrolled in the Web Development (AI Software) bootcamp (Fun fact: this was the very first session in Montréal 💫). Two and a half years later—the same moment he would have been graduating—he was already working as a software developer.

“Networking was a huge bonus, he added. All my jobs, directly or indirectly, came from people I met at Le Wagon Montréal.”

Lessons and advice for future students

Despite their different backgrounds, the three alumni shared the same conclusion: learning never stops.

As Martin put it:

“Your learning has only just begun.”

Nilsu agreed, adding that after more than a year in her role, she still learns every day, but now with curiosity instead of fear. For Andrew, it’s the mindset that matters:

“The world doesn’t give you theory first. You learn by doing. That’s exactly how the industry works.”

They also had practical advice for anyone considering a bootcamp:

• Martin: “It worked out very well for me and for a lot of people I know.”
• Andrew: “You get to make stuff. That’s what makes it unique.”
• Nilsu: “The bootcamp gives you tools to break into the industry. But it’s your journey—you need to know how you want to use it.”

There isn’t just one way into tech, whether through a degree, self-teaching, or a bootcamp. Each path is unique. But for Nilsu, Andrew, and Martin, Le Wagon Montréal was either the perfect complement to their studies or the launchpad that kickstarted their careers.

What matters most is taking that first step—and being willing to keep learning long after the program ends.

✨ Every journey starts with one step. Why not make yours at Le Wagon Montréal? Check out our upcoming bootcamps.”