Chapter 1: My Decision to Join Le Wagon

When considering a career in Data Science, many individuals ponder the value of enrolling in a bootcamp. I’ve found myself grappling with this very question on numerous occasions. While there are valid reasons to avoid bootcamps—such as their high costs, the abundance of free resources online, and options like Coursera's free degrees—there are compelling arguments for choosing a bootcamp, particularly Le Wagon, which I believe is the best in the industry.

Section 1.1: Bootcamp vs. Master's Degree

This raises an important question: Why opt for a bootcamp instead of pursuing a master’s degree? While attending a prestigious university for a year would be ideal, my personal circumstances make this impractical. In the UK, master's applications typically close by December, with courses starting in late September or early October. Realistically, I would face an 18-month wait for the next enrollment cycle.

At nearly 40 years old and transitioning careers, I share living expenses with my spouse, making it less feasible to wait for the perfect educational opportunity. Given the numerous pathways available to break into Data Science, waiting for the ideal situation would be a misallocation of time. It’s also worth noting that many successful individuals are making strides in the field without formal degrees.

Although some may disagree, I contend that the job market is evolving. Increasingly, tech companies prioritize innovation and skills over traditional qualifications. Students often find themselves competing for high grades rather than fostering a collaborative environment that encourages creativity. I believe the combination of mentorship, access to resources, and a community of like-minded individuals is key to success, and this is what I aim to find.

Section 1.2: Why Choose Le Wagon?

Le Wagon’s 9-week intensive program consistently garners high praise, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.98 out of 5 from over 1,875 reviews on SwitchUp. Conversations with alumni from various bootcamps reveal that only Le Wagon graduates express unequivocal satisfaction with their investment.

Their curriculum is specifically designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, with alumni launching over 130 startups, collectively raising approximately €103.67 million ($124 million). Noteworthy examples include:

• Matera: A platform connecting legal and financial professionals to aid co-owners in managing their properties.
• Travelsify: A travel agency utilizing natural language processing to uncover unique local destinations and accommodations.
• Implicity: A company enhancing clinical operations and care standards through data-driven predictive solutions in cardiology.

In the final weeks of the program, participants develop and present their startups on Demo Day, simulating the environment of Y Combinator. The experience transcends mere coding; it instills an entrepreneurial mindset throughout the bootcamp.

Section 1.3: A Unique Learning Environment

Participants engage with a diverse network of entrepreneurs, recruiters, and peers who share similar aspirations. Le Wagon fosters a contemporary work atmosphere, encouraging collaboration akin to platforms like Basecamp and GitHub. Students typically work from 9 AM to 8 PM, balancing intense learning with breaks for lunch and yoga classes.

For many transitioning professionals, this innovative approach to work offers a refreshing perspective, contrasting sharply with traditional office routines marked by extensive meetings and paperwork. Once exposed to this dynamic environment, it becomes challenging to revert to conventional corporate structures.

Section 1.4: Preparing for Success

While it may seem that anyone can join, it's essential to recognize that Le Wagon’s curriculum is a significant step up from what’s available online. A solid foundation in linear algebra and calculus is highly recommended, as students will face a steep learning curve from the outset.

To ensure all participants are adequately prepared, there is a mandatory 40-hour pre-course training covering essential coding and mathematics skills. Below are some recommended resources for those interested in getting a head start in Data Science:

#### Python & SQL

• Intermediate Python for Data Science
• Fundamentals of Pandas and Numpy
• Data Cleaning and Analysis Techniques
• Introduction to the Command Line
• SQL Basics and Intermediate Skills for Data Analysis

#### Mathematics

• Complete Linear Algebra Course on Khan Academy
• Essential Math for Data Science and Machine Learning (investment-worthy)

#### Terminal & Git/GitHub

• Navigating Your Filesystem with Linux/Mac Terminal
• Git and GitHub for Beginners (see video below)

#### Machine Learning

To build a foundational understanding of Machine Learning, I recommend Andrew Ng's Coursera course, which, despite its theoretical nature, provides valuable insights into the topics covered in the latter weeks of the bootcamp.

Conclusion

The Data Science landscape is evolving rapidly. Delaying your entry into the field can mean missing out on valuable opportunities. For those of us in our late thirties, waiting a year and a half for a master's program may not be the best path forward. Bootcamps offer a viable alternative, and it’s crucial to choose one that aligns with your goals and connects you with like-minded individuals. There’s an abundance of free resources available for those looking to dip their toes into Data Science before making a financial commitment.

References:

[1] The Guardian: Elon Musk's Views on Education

[2] Dev: An Honest Review of Le Wagon Bootcamp

Description: In this video, the speaker shares their personal journey of becoming a data scientist without a computer science degree or attending a bootcamp.

Description: Jeremie Harris discusses building a data science startup and insights on getting into the data science field.