Sprint 5 Reflections - Human Skills

September 2025

Three New Things I Learned About Myself

I learned that my internal need to be right all the time clouds my ability to learn or gain as much from a conversation or a teaching moment as my full potential allows. I have also learned that it's okay to fail and be down on myself, but it's just as important to practice positive self-talk and pick myself back up. Additionally, I have learned how to practice self-discipline and motivate myself without stress and a deadline being the only motivator.

The Role of Values, Empathy, and Self-Awareness in Learning and Programming

One's values, level of empathy, and amount of self-awareness influence learning and programming more than most people would assume. If an individual is technically skilled but doesn't have enough empathy to help a colleague, they're of limited use to a team. Without self-awareness, it's difficult to recognize personal flaws and their impact on work and teammates. Values determine intent behind decisions, whether in code or interpersonally. Often, these traits are more important than technical knowledge alone.

What Surprised Me Most About Human Skills Learning

Initially, I assumed the curriculum would focus mainly on team building or interpersonal skills, but the scope is much broader. The traits and ideas the curriculum encourages reflection on are also more specific than I expected.

Most Challenging Aspects

The most challenging part was being vulnerable and posting personal reflections on a blog visible to every facilitator and cohort member. However, I also recognize the strength that comes from being vulnerable, as long as it stays within tolerable discomfort.

Why Human Skills Are Important in a Programming Bootcamp

These skills aren't just incredibly useful for our future careers in tech, making us stronger candidates for management or team lead roles.. they also help us grow as individuals. Developing human skills alongside technical skills creates a more balanced and effective professional.

Was Studying Human Skills a Waste of Time?

I wish there was more time spent on human skills. I'm excited to continue developing these skills throughout bootcamp, in my personal life, and in my career. I absolutely do not consider this time a waste; in fact, most programming schools would benefit from integrating human skills training as effectively as this curriculum does.