Joan’s journey: learning Data Science while working full-time

Joan, a Market Research professional from Barcelona, joined Le Wagon’s part-time Data Science bootcamp while working full-time. Six months later, he landed a new job in tech. Here’s how he did it.
Summary

Stay on top of the latest tech trends & AI news with Le Wagon’s newsletter

If you’re considering a career change or want to upskill in tech without quitting your job, you’re not alone. More and more professionals are turning to part-time bootcamps to gain in-demand tech skills while keeping their careers on track.

We spoke to Joan, a Market Research professional from Barcelona, about his experience in Le Wagon’s part-time Data Science bootcamp. He shared how he managed full-time work and studies, and how the program helped him transition into a new role in tech.

 



Can you tell us a bit about your background?

My name is Joan, and I’m from Barcelona. I studied Economics and have been working in Market Research for several years. Before joining Le Wagon, I worked as a Panel Manager, focusing on monitoring panel health, usage, and recruitment needs. I tracked specific KPIs and conducted ad hoc analyses to optimize overall performance.


What motivated you to learn Data Science?

Over the last five years, I began learning SQL and R on my own, and they gradually became my go-to tools at work. I also completed a few Data Analytics courses, but always felt something was missing – I lacked the theoretical foundations to fully understand what I was doing.

That’s what pushed me to take the next step and join a Data Science & AI bootcamp at Le Wagon. I chose Data Science over Analytics to challenge myself and build a deeper skill set.

Curious about the difference between Data Analytics and Data Science? Explore the key differences in this blog post.


Why part-time, and what were your goals?

Since I wanted to keep my job, doing the bootcamp part-time was the only viable option. Le Wagon’s program gave me the flexibility I needed to balance both work and study.

My goals were clear: build strong foundations in data, learn Python, develop core Data Science skills, and step out of my comfort zone. I knew it would be a challenge for six months, but I saw it as an investment in myself and my future.


How did you stay on track while working full-time?

My company was very supportive and allowed me some flexibility when needed. I also had the chance to work from home, which made a big difference as no commuting meant more time for studying.

To stay consistent, I set a strict routine, relied heavily on coffee, and made a few sacrifices, especially cutting back on social life. It was intense, but the bootcamp’s structure helped me stay focused and not fall behind.

 


How did you experience the online format and the community support?

I was really impressed with how well organised everything was. The platform, structure, and support made sure we had all the tools we needed to succeed, even from a distance. It worked better than I expected, and I always felt there was help when I needed it.

The community side was also a positive experience. Ben, our Program Manager, was an excellent teacher and an even better person. He took the time to get to know each of us and kept us engaged throughout the journey. Most of the teaching assistants were also great, helpful and approachable.

As for classmates, the dynamic was good, but of course, forming deeper connections remotely can be a bit more challenging. Still, I always felt part of the group and supported throughout!

Wondering what it’s like to learn online? See what to expect from Le Wagon’s online part-time bootcamp.


How has your career progressed since graduating?

After the bootcamp, I stayed with my previous company for about six months. I’ve now started a new role as a Product Data Analyst at a different company. I feel much more confident in my skills, and Le Wagon definitely played a big part in helping me make this transition.


Any tips for future part-time students?

As Ben always said: believe in the process. Some days it feels easy, others it feels overwhelming – but it’s all part of the journey. If you follow the structure, ask for help when needed, and lean on the TAs, it’s absolutely doable. I’d also recommend having basic programming knowledge before you start, it helps a lot in the beginning.

 



Why a part-time bootcamp might be right for you

Joan’s story shows how a part-time Data Science bootcamp can open real doors without putting your job or personal life on hold. Whether you’re based in Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, or anywhere in Spain, Le Wagon’s remote format and structured support make it possible to gain real-world tech skills on your terms.

 

Ready to take the next step? Here’s everything you need to get started:

📘 Check out the full curriculum

📞 Book a call with a Learning Advisor

✍️ Apply to the Data Science & AI bootcamp

Our users have also consulted:
These tech products were made in China!

9 intensive weeks, 360 hours of code at Le Wagon Shanghai, an acceleration journey from

Pour développe mes compétences
Formation développeur web
Formation data scientist
Formation data analyst
Les internautes ont également consulté :
Alumni Story | Find The Transferrable Skills to Enter The Tech World

Covid may be the catalyst for Bennis’ transition into the tech world, but he has

What we learned as junior developers coding a web app remotely in 3 weeks

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted each of us differently, and this is just one way

Suscribe to our newsletter

Receive a monthly newsletter with personalized tech tips.