Because we are proud of our students, their story, their background and what they go on to achieve, we have decided to continue our “Meet Our Students” series. This week, we’re introducing you to Nicolas Adamini. Nicolas just finished his bachelor’s-level diploma in Front-End web development at OpenClassrooms. And guess what? He’s already found a job!
At OpenClassrooms, learning is project-driven which means that you learn by doing. It is the best and fastest way to become job-ready and have a portfolio to show employers when you’re applying for a job. A typical program has between 9 and 11 projects and each project is inspired by a real-life situation. Why? That way you can go and make it real… but most importantly, fun!
We decided to ask Nicolas a few questions that may be helpful to a lot of prospective students. If you have any other you would like to ask, do not hesitate to use the comment section to ask your question:
Nicolas, can you tell us about you? Where are you from and what was your professional status before starting the course?
My name is Nicolas, I’m from Toulouse a beautiful city located in the south of France.
I used to study economics at university while doing some random coding projects for myself.
What is your professional project now?
I did the front-end path and validated my projects, I’m waiting for the final jury to deliver the degree, which should be around the end of April 2018.
While waiting for my diploma, I’m looking for work, preferably in a startup with a great culture and challenging projects. So far it’s going well. I had my first tech interview last week. I’m still doing my random projects and secretly hoping for world domination. 😉
Editor’s update: in the meantime, Nicolas found a job in a startup as a Front-End Developer. Well done!
What difficulty (if any!) did you encounter while studying online?
When I was struggling to find something my mentor would help. So, for example, it could have been with the project brief that wasn’t clear enough to me or with some guidance on how I could improve/do something. You can also ask other students and do some peer to peer learning if you want to. It’s crazy how everyone wants to learn and is helpful, I have been really surprised in a good way.
What did you enjoy most about learning with OpenClassrooms?
I really like the Workplace, people are really supportive and eager to learn!
For those who didn’t know (like me) about the workplace, it’s kind of a Facebook for work, you can share, create groups and chat with your OC peers. We have groups for the path, to find a job, to talk about what you want…
Also, I like the mentors, all the ones I had were really nice and smiling. And finally, I love that we can learn at our own pace!
There are other things but those are the main reasons I prefer learning at OpenClassrooms.
What advice/tip would you give anyone who would like to learn online?
I think it’s really important to learn how to learn, it’s going to serve you everywhere especially if you do something tech related because things are moving really fast and you have to be efficient in your learning. Find or ask where the people are learning to diversify your knowledge about a topic (cf. learn to learn) and if you want to skyrocket your progress, make projects that you love. It doesn’t feel like work and your brain will pick up the material faster and longer.
I also recommend learning soft skills like how to sell yourself and communicate, it’s going to be really important when you will be looking for a job, no matter how good you are if you can’t communicate it, you won’t go far.
In short, learning online is a great opportunity but keep in mind that you have to work hard and smart.
Want to see more student reviews?
Over the last few months, we have had the chance to be able to interview many of our students. Below are a few links you might find useful:
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