Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Collab Lab
3. Application Tips
4. Conclusion

Introduction

Hi, I'm Shangguan👋🏼, a self-taught developer, currently in my month 6 of studying frontend development full-time. I hope this post will help you stand out in the Collab Lab application process. Let's get started! 🚀

About Collab Lab

What is Collab Lab? My journey with this program began when I heard glowing reviews from a fellow alumna, Andrea, whom I met through the Women Who Code community. As a self-taught dev, I realized while building personal projects can sharpen the technical side, the missing piece is collaboration with teammates, i.e. committing to different branches, pulling git requests etc. This is where Collab Lab comes in handy. Collab Lab offers early-career developers a chance to gain real-world experience in professional settings. Over the course of 8 weeks, you will work with 3 other developers to create a React app while receiving valuable guidance from dedicated volunteer mentors.
Check out the official website for more: https://the-collab-lab.codes/

Application Tips

1. Prep work

Before applying, you should have a solid foundation in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. I recommend exploring free learning resources like freecodecamp and Scrimba.

2. Demonstrate your passion

The application process is straightforward, involving two questions about your coding journey and your motivation to join the program, and a link to your Github.
As the saying goes:

Show, don't tell

In the creative world of coding, actions speak louder than words. Showcase your dedication through Github commit history, allowing the admission team to witness consistency in coding.
Consider adding a well-crafted Readme.md to your Github profile, including a brief bio and Github Stats like what I have below. Github serves as your resume in the dev world, and it takes a few seconds for a recruiter to screen resume. Given the high volume of applicants, guiding the admissions team into your digital garden. Pin your proudest personal projects, and ensure an informative readme in each that explains your building process.

Aside from passion for coding, it's crucial to showcase your genuine interest in Collab Lab. How did you hear about them and what do you know about the program? Delve into their social media (Youtube and Twitter) with a level of enthusiasm akin to stalking your EX(minus the emotional baggage, of course!).
Consider reaching out to past alumni to gain insights into their experiences. This process is also beneficial to build connections and align expectations so you know what you are getting into.

3. Show your authentic self

Everyone's coding journey is different, and this is where you will shine. Embrace your unique coding journey and highlight how you found the grits to switch into this field? And how did your past experience help you collaborate in a team environment? How did you juggle between life and work, and conquer any setbacks? Don't be afraid to show your aspirations. Your essay is like a Crystal ball🔮 that shows the admission team your past, present, and future. Articulate your career aspirations clearly. For instance, instead of mentioning "I want to become a frontend developer", try "I want to find a junior React developer role at a small startup".
Also worth mentioning if you possess any skills to offer, remember the Collab Lab thrives on a group of kind-hearted volunteers, and they could very much use some help if you are willing to give back to the community.

Conclusion

This was my second time applying to the Collab Lab, I first applied in March 2023 and didn't get in. Back then, I just got started on my coding journey and lack the confidence to code in React. This experience taught me two things, I need to master React, and I need to use Github more often to show my track record. Fast forward 5 months later, a momentous email landed in my inbox:

The key is don't give up. If you apply, you will get two result: good news or valuable learning lessons. Good luck!

If you like this post, consider giving it a like, it means a lot to me🍀