From Trombone to Keyboard - and We Don't Mean the Musical Kind!

From Musician to Front End Developer at Amazon Prime Video

When you think of a coding instructor, a professional musician might not be the first image that comes to mind. But for Michael Ventoso, a Nucamp instructor with a passion for both music and technology, it's the perfect harmony.

Michael's journey into the world of coding is as unique as his background. Originally a music student at Bard College, he stumbled into computer science almost by accident. "I picked math because I knew I was reasonably good at it," Michael recalls. "But then I realized what I could do with a computer science degree, and it just made sense."

This decision set Michael on a path that would not only change his career but also inspire countless students at Nucamp. After graduating, he landed a job at Amazon Prime Video as a front-end developer, where he spent two years honing his skills.

But Michael's story doesn't end there. In fact, it's just the beginning.

What sets Michael apart as an instructor is his unwavering belief in his students' potential.

"I really do believe every single person can do it," he says with conviction. "It doesn't matter how long it takes. If they put the work in, they can do it."

This positive attitude is the cornerstone of Michael's teaching philosophy. He creates an environment where students feel empowered to learn, experiment, and grow. "I want them to believe that they can do it because if they believe it, it makes them more likely to go out there and do it." he explains.

Michael's approach to teaching is hands-on and practical. He encourages students to verify concepts for themselves rather than just taking his word for it. "Let's write a test and see how it works," he often says, interrupting his own presentations to demonstrate concepts in real-time.

But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Michael's story is how he draws inspiration from his students. "I draw a lot of my energy from the students," he shares.

"If it wasn't for all my Nucamp students, I would not have thought to push myself harder. I would not have been inspired to make short-term sacrifices for long-term gains the same way they are."

This mutual inspiration creates a positive feedback loop in Michael's classes, where both instructor and students motivate each other to reach new heights.

Michael's journey with Nucamp has not only allowed him to share his knowledge but has also opened up new opportunities for him too.

For those considering a career change or looking to level up their skills, Michael has one piece of advice:

"You only lose when you quit. If you keep going, you will find a way to make everything work."

This mindset, coupled with Nucamp's supportive environment and practical approach to coding education, has helped countless students transform their lives and careers.

Michael's story shows the importance of a positive learning environment, and the incredible potential of a coding education. It's also a reflection of what makes Nucamp special – instructors who are not just teachers, but also lifelong learners and sources of inspiration.

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to upgrade your skills, Nucamp offers a supportive community and practical, hands-on learning experiences. With instructors like Michael Ventoso, who bring real-world experience and unbridled enthusiasm to every class, you'll find the support and motivation you need to succeed.

So why wait? Take a page from Michael's book and start your coding journey today. Remember, in the world of coding, the only limit is your willingness to keep learning and growing. And at Nucamp, you'll find all the tools and support you need to turn your coding dreams into reality.