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Discussion on: Do FreeCodeCamp Certifications Hold Weight?

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tashapenwellhc profile image
Tasha Penwell

I have a BS in IT and Masters in ISM and I’ve been working in education for about 5 years now.

My traditional education as stated above was only comprised by development courses by a small amount (and anything I do remember is now outdated). Everything I do now is purely self-taught.

Despite my current skills being self-taught those degrees were necessary for me to be in the position where I am today. Sometimes it was it just giving me the courage to apply cause I “checked” the boxes in my application.

I recall when I was working for my degrees thinking that once I have that diploma jobs would appear in my lap and I would magically understand everything. As I’m sure you no - I was so wrong.

What I did get with my traditional education is
✅ increased confidence
✅ learning how to learn
✅ improved soft skills
✅ find the subject that led me to “find my spark” (that’s what I say at GWC sessions)

Ultimately, both are a piece of paper. The knowledge gained is where the money is at. That being said, my only word of caution for those who say no to earning college degrees is that right now our economy is pretty good but when it crashes (it’s just the nature of it, politics aside) and all other things being equal the showing of the degree can make or break a job offer.

My advice to students? Keep earning certifications (I am) but if the opportunity is there at least complete an Associate Degree.

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bbarbour profile image
Brian Barbour

I would if college wasn't overpriced.

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tashapenwellhc profile image
Tasha Penwell

It is very overpriced I agree. Student loans aren’t fun. For me, college was a necessary step because at the time I didn’t realize there were other options but I don’t think I would be where I am today if I didn’t have that paper I’m currently car shopping and car prices are so ridiculously high and it made me think about how much an Associate degree was in comparison (a lot less) and I think that was an interesting comparison. IMO, a car’s ROI isn’t anywhere as high as an education and an education (traditional or non) is not something that can be taken away.

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bbarbour profile image
Brian Barbour

I guess it's a trust thing too. I don't trust colleges. They seem like one bit profit driven Ponzi scheme.

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tashapenwellhc profile image
Tasha Penwell

They can be if you think of institution as a whole. I think it’s the individual teachers and them sharing their knowledge and experience is where the value is at - not just reading from dated textbooks and PowerPoints. So often people don’t pursue a career path that they would love because they don’t know it exists. The instructors share what they know and point out paths to students to help expose them to a world that options are limitless. 👩‍🏫

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bbarbour profile image
Brian Barbour

Fair enough! I think if it we're free for most people in the USA, then it would be less punishing to do that sort of exploration.

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leuljam7 profile image
Leul Mamo

You know you can move to a cheaper country and earn a degree there.

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bbarbour profile image
Brian Barbour

Eh it's not even worth it at this point in my career to get one.

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leuljam7 profile image
Leul Mamo

Ofcourse, I get that :)
I am self taught too. I have a law degree but, kinda considering if I should go to school again since, I am only 24! :D But, it is still inconvenient in other regards I guess.

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pauldjesu profile image

I have an associate degree in MIS. It has helped me to learn several programming languages. As you said, during the crisis period of unemployment, it helped me. Also, there are times when you meet professionals, they look down on you if you do not have a degree.

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bbarbour profile image
Brian Barbour

Yeah. It's sad sometimes.