PRIME Careers

From our students

Testimonials

Real quotes from program participants, shared with permission. They span five-plus years of cohorts, including Coding in Colour, the program that became PRIME.

  • 72

    student quotes

  • 6

    themes

  • 5+

    years of cohorts

Interviews

Graduate journeys

Four longer conversations with graduates: where they started, what changed, and what comes next.

All quotes

72 testimonials

Career changers

“This opportunity is what gave me hope, because previously I couldn't even get a single interview.”

— Past graduate

My 8-year-old daughter comes home from school and sits beside me to watch the lectures. She knows all of the instructors now. You're not only teaching me — you're inspiring her.

— Past graduate · mom of 8-year-old

Family & balance

“For some women with children, we might not be ready to enter the workforce yet, but achieving the certificate and putting it on our wall is itself the goal. The confidence it brings — and the role model we can be for our kids — makes it worth it.”

— Past graduate · mother

Family & balance

“Completing such an intensive course leaves me feeling accomplished — but it was undeniably challenging. As an adult juggling responsibilities, managing time was particularly hard.”

— Past graduate

Family & balance

“I saved money for months to attend, but the money ran out and I had to go back to construction work. I'm still pushing to finish the final project — and I feel proud to have belonged to this beautiful community.”

— Past graduate

Family & balance

“I learned a lot in this course because it wasn't only about coding — there were workshops that helped me manage my life and deal with things in a different way.”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“I felt overwhelmed working full-time, but the support team helped me a lot. I was completely new to coding — now I feel I could have coding as my second career.”

— Past graduate

I have actively designed 8 websites with colleagues since starting this program!

— Past graduate

Real outcomes

“Completing such an intensive course has left me feeling incredibly confident in my abilities.”

— Past graduate

Real outcomes

“I discovered my true passion in UI design, even though I initially disliked programming. Sally's guidance made me realize that beginner-level coding skills are all I need.”

— Past graduate

Real outcomes

“It broadened my understanding of the tech industry — and revealed that my interest in problem-solving could become a rewarding career in data analysis.”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“I really enjoyed the course and it has helped me decide my career path. I will definitely be doing more related courses.”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“It has changed my life in big ways. I'm excited about coding now and I feel like I can do more. But I'm also honest with myself — the job market is super competitive.”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“What motivated me was learning a skill set in high demand — and the remote career opportunities it could open up. I actually got more than I was expecting: the curriculum and hands-on approach exceeded my expectations.”

— Past graduate

My mind is blown! I've been writing React projects for a year and never used classes. Working on this assignment, I realized I didn't fully understand some basic JavaScript concepts. Thank you for this course and your fantastic support!

— Past graduate

Career changers

“With a medical background, it was very difficult for me to understand at the very beginning, but with the help of supportive instructors it was possible to learn quickly. I find it more interesting than my medical science education.”

— Past graduate · medical background

Career changers

“The course offered us the full application-development cycle, not one specific technology only. That was great!”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“Learning JavaScript here consolidated my coding basics — and even helped me understand my first language, Python, much better. My problem-solving skills have significantly improved.”

— Past graduate

Career changers

“If coding is your passion, this is your canvas for learning and building confidence. My dream is to help ESL students learn English with a personalized tutor.”

— Past graduate

Newcomer stories

“I learn a lot from lectures and do lots of research to complete the tasks. I learn the knowledge twice — once in English, and once in my mother language.”

— Past graduate

In my country these opportunities are not given. I wanted to make a change in my life. I never thought I would get so much support — not only academically, but personally. I feel very proud to have learned from you.

— Past graduate

Newcomer stories

“I attended a course back in France, but the instructor never explained the logic behind the methods. Here, the instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and generous. They make us feel confident. I am grateful.”

— Past graduate

Newcomer stories

“I didn't have any IT background, so this was my first experience of coding. I felt overwhelmed when I started, but I learned a lot — and this experience brought me closer to a field that matters for the future.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I was so proud of myself when I completed such an intensive course — because I joined with zero knowledge.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“Honestly, I feel great. I believe this was the best use of my time during this period. At some point I almost gave up, but I am glad I did not.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“There were many times I thought of giving up on it — it was too hard to deal with an online course this way. But I finished.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“My first project gave me an 'aha' moment when I realized I was capable of turning my ideas into something real and meaningful.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I got what I came here for. Now it doesn't seem so scary. I'm looking forward to continuing my studies and choosing a direction to go deeper.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I realize that I was able to complete a complex course at 95%, acquiring good grades. I recognize that I have abilities — and above all, I improved my resilience.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I feel more and more comfortable as I progress in the course. You guys have been awesome, to be honest.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I have become more technically literate and overcome the fear that used to exist around programming. Now I know where to go for help — and I'm not afraid to experiment and problem-solve on my own.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“When I integrated JavaScript into my mini-game website, I saw how CSS and HTML work with JS to create an interesting interface. The code came to life.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“Completing the assignments gave me a great feeling of accomplishment. I even shared the link with family and friends — they can use the Tip Calculator now!”

— Past graduate

First steps

“It has given me the confidence to learn more on my own — it brings together pieces from past courses where I had failed miserably with coding.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I don't have prior experience with coding. After completing this milestone, I am confident with whatever I learned.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“This milestone helped me build an interactive, responsive website with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS — and introduced valuable tools like Figma and SASS. Thank you very much.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“It has lit a passion for learning beyond the cohort lessons.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I was always intimidated by advanced data structures. The instructors made everything so clear that this built my confidence and excitement to dive into more. I just wish I had discovered this course earlier.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“This course has made me more resourceful — better able to understand and solve my own problems.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“Completing this project on my own from start to finish — including creating the designs in Figma and Canva — let me work creatively and problem-solve on my own.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“This course has definitely given me the confidence to dip my toes into the digital world more than I ever have before.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“How much time you put into the program is how much you earn.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I really liked how the assignments were designed. I actually learned a lot through them — sometimes I learn while doing the assignment.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I've picked up a lot of solid JavaScript skills, and the support from instructors and fellow students has been awesome. I feel more confident with coding now.”

— Past graduate

First steps

“I learned coding from scratch. The sessions were interesting, I received tremendous support, and the assignments boosted our confidence.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“This is not just a course for me — it is so much more than that. It's been a way to learn, a community. I really appreciate the people.”

— Past graduate

It helped me build confidence in my coding abilities and fostered a sense of belonging within the tech community. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion encouraged me to embrace my unique perspective.

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The instructors were a great support — special thanks to Hafsa, who didn't quit on me when I was about to quit. Aleem, Yaman, and Tasneem: thank you all.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

Community & support

“The importance of a career coach cannot be overstated — resume writing, interview preparation, and networking strategies increased my confidence in presenting myself to employers.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“My experience with Sally's sessions was excellent — valuable guidance, personalized advice, and insightful feedback that helped me navigate my career transition effectively.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“Learning became enjoyable knowing that whenever I faced errors or bugs, there was reliable support available to guide me through them. I definitely got the value I was expecting.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The community has played a crucial role in my learning journey by offering support, guidance, and motivation.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“I'm taking the cohort asynchronously, but I really do feel like I'm in the classroom during lectures.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The support was incredible!”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“There are plenty of practice questions and time slots for hands-on practice with guided help from the instructors. In my opinion, this course is perfect.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The instructors have done their BEST. They covered all the topics and patiently answered all my questions.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The course content is very well structured and the assignment instructions are clear. When we need help, the instructors do their best to answer our questions.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The milestone was quite advanced for a beginner, and we covered a lot in a short time. I truly appreciate all the support — I wouldn't have been able to pass without your help. THANK YOU ALL.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The assignments and support were beyond my expectations.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“Knowing what I know now, I could never find such an opportunity elsewhere. Even with the fast pace, I was given more one-on-one help than I would get in a college or university course.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“I strongly appreciated the flexibility that catered to all our circumstances. The soft-skills sessions taught me precious life skills — and I could not give up on myself when they were not giving up on me.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“Watching the instructors write code, resolve issues, and build programs in real time helps me understand concepts and write programs by myself.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“All the instructors are helpful, supportive, and knowledgeable — and very patient in listening to each student and helping at their level of understanding.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“Not everyone in this course has an IT background — some of us are just starting to understand the concepts. I greatly appreciate how the course is designed. The instructors are doing a great job.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“The workshops and mentorship gave me practical knowledge to improve my coding and navigate the tech industry — and the sense of belonging I found was incredibly rewarding.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“I have learned a lot that I never thought I'd be able to understand so well. Kudos to the instructors and support team for a fantastic all-round learning and growing experience.”

— Past graduate

Community & support

“I learned to support others — and to learn from their mistakes.”

— Past graduate

No stories match this filter yet — more voices are added as new cohorts graduate.

Career changers

From bookkeeping to web development

An accountant who used time off work to learn to code

What brought you here?

“My degree is in accounting, but many years ago I was really interested in programming. I recently broke my ankle and was off work — I thought it was a good opportunity to try coding. It was a dream come true for me.”

What changed?

“This program taught me to never give up. I was overwhelmed in the beginning — I didn't think I could do it. I put in a lot of hours in the evening, and I found that I enjoyed it. Finding solutions to problems. As a person, I'm more organised now, and nothing stops me.”

Your 'aha' moment?

“When I made that cube in the project — at first it wasn't working, but then I realised I had to add my own touch to it. When I finished it, I felt like if I can do this, I can do anything.”

What's the dream?

“To work in coding. I come home from work, sit at my computer, and start coding. Some of it doesn't work and some of it does. It has ignited something in me.”

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Family & balance

A civil engineer restarting in Canada

She finished the program while caring for her newborn as a single mother

What brought you here?

“I'm a civil engineer and I want to change to software development. I did a front-end course before moving, and I just landed here — I wanted to brush up my skills and learn back-end, which I'd never learned before.”

What changed?

“I thought I'd never make it, since this is my first time being a mom — and I'm a single mom, the only care provider for the baby. I think I'm doing well: I'm caught up with all the content. This has really changed my life, knowing I can do things. The instructors and support team were amazing.”

What's the dream?

“Getting a job in this field and joining the community. I want to become a front-end developer at least, if not full-stack. I just moved here and had a baby — I'm really excited to graduate and start my dream career.”

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Career changers

A translator moving into development

A freelance localization specialist learning full-stack development

What brought you here?

“I'm a linguist — I localize apps, software, websites, and digital marketing content. I bought courses online but they never panned out. I really enjoy working remotely and being self-employed, so that's what brought me back to coding.”

What changed?

“The pace. Learning by myself was less structured. Here there are instructors to ask questions, group work like a real workplace, and a set structure. It's rare to find this kind of flexibility — especially when it's free.”

Your 'aha' moment?

“The API assignment. You're able to pull data from Spotify — who would have thought you can do that? Apparently this year I listened to 46 thousand minutes of music, and I got to use my own data in my project. That's definitely one of the moments I felt a sense of achievement.”

What's the advice?

“Go for it. For everyone interested in learning coding who cannot afford a $30k course, or who is working full-time — it's great to have people guiding you with flexible times. I actually have a friend who just joined.”

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Family & balance

A project manager returning to software

She studied computer science, raised her kids, and came back to the field

What brought you here?

“I did my bachelors and masters in computer science and worked in the field until I had kids. I focused on raising my family and put my career on the back-burner. I decided it's high time to restart once my kids reached high school.”

What changed?

“I was never a coder — I always ran away from coding and moved into project management. Now going back, doing OOP and React is a totally different ball game. It's been exponential growth for me. Working code is every coder's joy; every assignment gives me joy.”

What role did the community play?

“It's not just teaching — there's a lot of empathy for people struggling or falling behind. The student success sessions play a really important part. It's a very holistic approach.”

What's the dream?

“My kids are in this field too — now I can have real conversations with them about it. People come to me for advice, and I'd like to continue helping. It also gives me the chance to work from home, which gives me flexibility.”

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Family & balance

I have not been a student for many years before taking this course. I'm a mom of 3 boys under 10 and dedicated my life to raising them as a full-time mom. My youngest was starting preschool this year, so I decided to go on this journey of learning a new skill. I have never taken an intensive course like this before, and it felt like I was thrown into the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a half-inflated life jacket. It was really hard in the first couple of weeks because I had to relearn how to learn. If it weren't for the incredibly patient instructors, coordinators, and administration, I would never have completed the first month. It was the encouragement and cheering on from the crew that honestly made me feel like I could do this. Even when I felt like I was asking a dumb question, or when a simple concept just wasn't clicking for me, I never felt judged or shot down for asking it. Little things like that make such a huge difference to beginners of any new skill, especially those with learning disabilities. After experiencing this course, I think I know myself a little better. I know my limits and my capabilities. I also know that you're never too old or too busy to learn something new. Everything is hard when you're just starting out, but it gets easier the more you practise it — let go of meeting other people's expectations and do it for yourself.

Past graduate · mom of 3 · 2024

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

First steps

Before starting this milestone, I had absolutely no prior coding experience. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the idea of writing even a simple program, let alone working with complex concepts. However, reaching this point has been a game-changer for me. Through the structured assignments, I learned how to break down problems logically, debug my code, and think more like a developer. Concepts that once seemed intimidating now feel within my reach. Each challenge helped solidify my understanding, and the hands-on nature of the projects allowed me to apply what I was learning in a meaningful way. The support I received was also instrumental in my progress. Whether it was through feedback on my code, explanations that simplified difficult topics, or encouragement when I felt stuck, I always felt like I had the resources to push forward. I will continue to practice, as it still takes me time to process everything, but I know I will continue to get better the more I put into learning JavaScript.

Past graduate · 2024

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Community & support

You are not just instructors; you're the architects of our coding dreams. The positivity you all share and spread is highly valued and treasured. Together, you've created a symphony of learning that resonates in our minds and hearts. Each instructor and each class have been the canvas of our future, and your teachings have been strokes of inspiration, forming a thirst for knowledge and a spark for success. Thank you for not just imparting information but for nurturing our curiosity and fostering a community of learners. This feels like my extended family, and you are the heart that keeps it beating with passion and purpose. Here's to the late-night debugging and coding sessions, the 'Aha!' moments, and the laughter that echoed through my mistakes. You've not just taught us to code; you've shown us the artistry in it. I feel that I can never really thank you enough for your dedication.

Past graduate · 2024

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Community & support

My experience with the 1:1 sessions was incredibly valuable. Having dedicated time with a career coach provided personalized guidance and support tailored to my specific career goals and aspirations. These sessions allowed me to discuss my strengths, areas for development, and career interests in depth, helping me gain clarity and direction in my job search and career planning efforts.

Past graduate · 2024

Interested in the program? See if you qualify.

Where they landed

Success stories

  • Promoted within a month.

    A program graduate leveraged their new skills to earn a full-time role at their company within a month of finishing — moving from trainee to full-time team member.

  • First freelance contract at 19.

    A 19-year-old newcomer to Canada secured her first paid contract shortly after graduating, putting her family's healthcare expertise to work in new ways.

  • From learner to teacher.

    A graduate who'd been working in marketing went on to land a teaching role at a Vancouver bootcamp — passing forward what they'd learned.

  • Back to work after 8 years.

    A mother who'd been out of the workforce for eight years rebuilt her skill set and her confidence — getting ready to step back in when her youngest started kindergarten.

Quotes are lightly edited for length only — never for meaning — and anonymized to protect participants' privacy. Names and photos appear only when a graduate has explicitly chosen to be identified.

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