SPECS Spotlight — Suntha Lucas

What initially drew you to Atlas School?

The thought of learning to write code at an advanced level and visiting the campus. I knew I was in the right spot, and it just felt right. Seeing the students working at the tables, seeing the diversity, I felt like I had embarked on a whole new adventure and there was no turning back.

How has your experience at Atlas School so far shaped your understanding of the tech industry and your career goals?

Challenging! To be honest, I didn't realize that I understood so much until lately. It can be discouraging when you feel like I'm just not getting it or there's a lot to learn. But once I sit down and begin working on a project it suddenly comes back. Plus, there's all the resources that Atlas provides, which makes learning all the more in-depth.

What specific skills or technologies have you gained during your time at Atlas School that you’re most excited about?

I’ve realized how much I love working with front end development, using HTML and CSS. I don't think people really understand what goes into creating content that is viewed daily by millions of people, and all of the creativity involved in launching websites. I want to be a part of that, and I want to see where this takes me.

As you prepare to enter your specialization courses, what excites you most about diving deeper into Computer Science and Full Stack Web Development?

New possibilities, that's what excites me. I have worked years in a government forum. Now I have the chance to dig deep and do something for me. A second career, a second chance to do something that I really want to do, and something that I plan to be great at. The one thing I know is that this is my choice, not just a job but an actual career of choice. It's never too late to reinvent what you want to do with your life, and I believe that being a Full Stack Web Developer will help me achieve my goals.

How has the support from instructors and student tutors contributed to your success as a student?

Stellar! My most recent instructor, Ryan Styles, was so patient with me and my classmates. He showed us that he was interested in what we were doing which stood out. Our Student Tutors are always available and ready to help, and I appreciate their knowledge as experienced students.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering Atlas School but feels uncertain about whether they have the technical background or skills to succeed?

If you have a gut feeling that web development is your thing - MOVE ON IT! 

I am so happy that I didn't waste any time with the back and forth of should or shouldn’t I. My life was crying for a change! I didn't allow any stage of my life to interfere with me making a decision of whether to invest in me at Atlas. So many students have full time jobs and still make it to school to get it done. I see that and I know they have decided no matter what, they're investing in themselves. I see them when they're frustrated with a project they haven't figured out, but I also see them when a project has come full circle and ends successfully. 

Atlas is my full circle right now. It means I have stepped out of my comfort zone, took on the challenge, and can see myself leveling up. That's my new saying, I'm leveling up!

Find Your Path to a Software Development Career

Suntha is enrolled in the Computer Science & Full-Stack Web Development program. To look at currently-enrolling programs, like our Full-Stack Development program, check out our Programs page.