Why I Chose Kenzie

Curious about what it’s like to be a learner at Kenzie?

Current learner Chris Warren gives us a peek into his journey on this learner reflection. 

I started the Software Engineering program at Kenzie Academy in October 2019.

I came to Kenzie because I was looking for something, and it wasn’t just money. I won’t lie to you, the money a tech career can bring is a huge draw, but it goes far beyond that.

I was looking for a career. I was looking for a place to belong, and I found that here. Looking back, I kind of laugh at the things I went through to get to where I am; but in all reality, when I reflect on my journey, the things I went through prepared me for the progress I’ve made.

All my life I’ve felt like a square peg trying to fit in a round hole. Honestly speaking, I was never a perfect fit, but coming to Kenzie has changed my outlook on things. I have great instructors who’ve helped me a lot. I can’t even begin to say thank you enough for them.

I also found there was an entire community of folks who feel the same way I do. It’s been heartening for me to have met so many great people and built so many strong relationships that’ll last forever.

What I’ve found hasn’t been tangible, but more of an ideal. I found happiness and, most importantly, myself. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true.

Learning HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Redux, Python, and more has been a huge benefit for me, but honestly, you can learn those anywhere. What I wasn’t able to find anywhere else was the sense of community, of belonging. I’ve done quite a bit in my life, but none of it compares to finding a place of peace, of belonging.

Looking back, really choosing Kenzie was a hard decision, but one of the best ones I’ve made in a very, very long time.

My professional goals have always been simple: I want a career. I’m tired of just having meaningless jobs where I feel I’m wasting my energy and time. I want to follow my heart; I want to make sure my bills are taken care of and I can afford to live, not just merely exist.

The structure, guidance, instruction, and support I’ve received so far has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate it. The things I’ve done before didn’t give me that. They didn’t prepare me for the life I want, which is something I’ve only found at Kenzie.

Ready to jumpstart your career in tech? Learn more about our programs, or check out our free beginner’s coding program Kenzie Free.