Learn about CodeClan’s instructor team – their career journey so far, their passions and interests, as well as their day to day work life.
Meet Juan, who teaches on our Professional Software Development (PSD) in Edinburgh. We had a chat with him about why he chose to work at CodeClan, his advice for those looking to change their career, and what he gets up to in his free time…
Why did you want to join the CodeClan team?
I was a student in the 21st PSD cohort in Edinburgh so I knew I’d be working alongside people who really care and have passion for their jobs. I love to teach and see people expand their knowledge, it’s so rewarding getting to play a part in our students re-skilling for a new career.
What would you say has been your CodeClan career highlight so far?
I have so many! With each new cohort I find myself adding a new highlight. I always feel a great sense of satisfaction working with a student who is finding a particular area of the course challenging and seeing them have their ‘lightbulb moment’. It’s key that students work through problems themselves, but I’m always there to support.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
When the cohorts are coming to an end and students are starting to secure employment with their new skills. I always have a sense of pride when I hear a student has a job and I’ve played a part in their success.
What advice do you have for someone who is thinking of studying at CodeClan?
First and foremost you need to enjoy tech and everything that it involves. If you don’t have any coding experience, I‘d recommend trying it beforehand on one of the many free resources available online. Do some research, understand the industry you’re going into and don’t worry about maths, coding is about having an ability to problem solve. The learning environment at CodeClan is supportive from the minute you embark on the course.
What do you do in your free time?
I like to relax and the best way for me to do so is through yoga. I’ve practiced yoga for many years and It was especially important for me during lockdown when other forms of exercise were limited. I also spend time watching anime and reading manga – one of my all time favourites and first ever manga I read is ‘One Piece’.
In better times I do like to travel, I have a particular love for Asian countries in particular Japan, which I was due to visit again this year, but due to Covid-19 it won’t be possible so I’m hoping I can go back next year.
What’s your favourite book?
The little prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. I read this book when I was younger and it taught me so much about emotions. I recently read it again and fully grasped the powerful message this book has.
Who would you most like to swap places with for a day?
Hayao Miyazaki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli. I really admire his ability to transmit emotions and histories in his films. Even in the most traumatic events in Japanese history he is able to find beauty and magic as shown in ‘Grave of the Fireflies’. On my next trip to Japan I’m planning to visit his studio to see some of his work first hand.
