Shana Hagood
Shana is a Silicon Valley native studying web development and Japanese. She loves languages, food, and anything artistic.
What’s a challenge you’ve faced, and how did you get through it?
I was in the remote phase of a coding bootcamp and failed, for a second time, the test that would’ve allowed me to move on to the next phase. It was devastating. I had a really difficult time regaining my self-confidence afterward, especially since I had quit my job in an effort to change my life. Starting over seemed impossible, but I began to think about how far I’d come since I first started studying web development.
I practiced self-care and took some time to try to get over the devastation, and then decided to try again. I started slowly, by completing a course I’d started before the bootcamp. That gave me a little confidence. Then I spent a lot of time researching different types of coding programs to try to find one that would better suit my learning style. Udacity sounded like a good fit and I decided to give it a try. It took some time to regain my excitement for programming, but I kept working at it. Eventually it started to become exciting again. I gained more confidence as I continued to move forward and was able to finish the program. Once I completed it, I started receiving different types of job offers, which was why I started this journey in the first place.
2. What’s something you’ve done that you’re really proud of?
I’m extremely proud of receiving a Nanodegree after completing the Intro to Programming course from Udacity. Though I struggled with assignments and experienced some setbacks, I never gave up. The Nanodegree is a testament to my resilience and what I’m capable of.
3. What’s something that’s been on your mind this Black Heritage Month?
I want to discover my African roots. I grew up with a racially diverse group of friends whom, in addition to participating in American customs and traditions with me, were able to share the customs and traditions from the rest of their heritage. I’ve always been jealous that I can’t do the same. This Black History Month, I start to feel a greater need to know where I’m from so that I can participate in, and share my African heritage.
