Why I am at MATC

I am currently a student in the Web and Software Development program at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC). This is my third semester and will be graduating in May 2018. So far, I have learned how to use HTML, CSS, Javascript, C#, Java, SQL, C++, and different programming concepts. I am really enjoying learning how to create websites and software not only because of the effective learning tools that we are using, but also because of the passionate instructors who are teaching.

Studying at MATC was not really my choice. I moved here in the United States last June 2016, so I am not familiar with the schools around here in Milwaukee. I enrolled at MATC last August 2016 because it was recommended by my husband who studied at MATC in Madison and now working as a Senior Software Engineer. While studying at MATC, I was searching for other options to have better education.

Staying at MATC is my choice. We were thinking about transferring to a programming boot camp because we have heard that I could get a job faster than the college route. In boot camp, they said that it will only take 12 weeks to finish the program but it is going to be really intense. But we decided not to proceed because that is not part of my career goal.  My main goal is to have a degree in programming and work for large corporation like SAP, Salesforce, or Google. I really want to have a broader foundation in web and software development and I do not want to rush myself in learning and practicing programming. Aside from that, boot camps are expensive in comparison to MATC's tuition fee.

I would say that MATC is the best option based on my career goals. I am very proud to have made the Provost's list with a 3.97 GPA after two semesters. Being a student of MATC gives more confidence in reaching my goal to be a successful web and software engineer.