How to juggle a UX bootcamp with a full-time job
Completing a part-time bootcamp takes hard work and serious commitment. But with good time management skills, you can get on top of this.
A part-time course typically last for 6 months and will require 8–10 hours a week of your time to complete. Here are some tips that can help you complete the course without compromising your job:
1. Be connected with your cohort 🤝
There’s nothing more depressing than studying an online bootcamp after work hours all by yourself. A bootcamp is designed for you to be connected with others who are on the same journey such as yourself, so it would be wise to network and get acquainted with one another. After all, these are the people that you will be working closely with for the next 6 months.
Having someone to share ideas and feedback with makes the whole learning experience much more exciting and fun, and you can hold each other accountable too! These connections can alsopotentially lead you to a job opportunity in the future.
2. Make the most of your mentor 👨💻
Every cohort is assigned to a mentor, whose role is solely to guide you through the course, making sure you’re heading towards the right direction and answer all your questions. Be sure to regularly check in with your mentor, ask for feedback and if there’s areas for improvement. A good mentor will be encouraging you to proactively seek for advise.
One-on-one calls with your mentor can be limited (Typically 30 minutes per session) so be prepared with a list of questions and what insights are you hoping to get out of the session.
3. Treat yourself 🍰
That’s right, take time to treat yourself! Celebrate after the end of each project. It’s not easy going into another project right after finishing an intensive project. The upcoming project might commence immediately after finishing one and you will need to reset everything and remove yourself from the previous work before getting onto it.
So make sure to take sometime and reward yourself a good meal or a massage. Trust me, you deserve it!
4. Time management ⏱
Managing your time to self study, complete assignments and jump on zoom calls are key to completing the course. Understand how you work and work around your schedule and lifestyle to dedicate 2–3 hours for 3–4 days a week to complete the assignments and studies. I personally prefer getting them out of the way before Friday so that I can enjoy the weekend without thinking about the course, find what works for you.
After the first two weeks, you’ll start to get a rhythm of the course and how much time you will need to dedicate every week. Be sure to come up with a plan and stick to it, don’t leave any work to the last minute as you might be holding up your group mates too!
5. Keep your goal in focus 🏆
It is common for 30–40% of your cohort to drop out before completing the first project. The bootcamp is intensive and it’s easy to get demotivated overtime. Mark the end date down on your calendar and stay positive. The months will go pass so quickly that you won’t even notice. Think about that sweet dream job awaiting at the end of the course and you’ll be done with the course in no time.
