Switching careers is a monumental decision, especially when it comes to learning to code. It’s not just a leap into an unfamiliar skill set; it’s often a financial commitment as well. Bootcamps, courses, certifications—none of these are free. So how do you know if it’s worth it? Let me share my story and some insights on how to approach the financial side of switching to tech.

My $10K Investment in Data Structures and Algorithms

Years ago, when I was determined to break into FAANG, I made a bold investment in my future: I spent $10,000 learning data structures and algorithms. At the time, it felt like a ridiculous amount of money. I wanted to land a job at one of the big tech companies, and I knew my skills weren’t there yet. So I committed to learning.

The investment didn’t lead exactly where I thought it would. I made it to an onsite interview at Google—an achievement I never imagined possible—but I didn’t get the job. For many, that might feel like failure. But here’s the twist: that $10K still paid off. Not only did I pass interviews at other companies, but I also landed a job that boosted my salary by $25,000.

That initial investment has continued to yield returns in my career. The skills I gained in that intense period of learning have opened doors to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. To me, it’s simple math: how much do I stand to gain from this investment? If the potential return is greater than the cost, it’s a no-brainer.

The Reality: Investments Have Risks

Not every investment pays off. That’s true in finance, and it’s true in career changes. There’s no guarantee you’ll land the job or see the salary bump you’re hoping for. The tech industry, while lucrative, is also competitive.

That’s why you need to approach this decision like an investor. Ask yourself:

 • What’s my potential return on investment (ROI)?

Research average salaries for entry-level tech roles in your area. Compare them to your current salary. If you’re looking at a $30K+ increase, the investment might make sense.

 • What’s the cost?

Factor in not just tuition for a bootcamp or course but also the time commitment and potential sacrifices, like reduced hours at your current job.

 • What’s my risk tolerance?

Are you financially stable enough to take this leap? If you fail to land a job right away, will you still be okay?

Are You the Kind of Person Who Will Succeed?

The harsh truth is, not everyone will make it. Like any investment, learning to code comes with inherent risks. But here’s the thing: you can mitigate those risks by giving yourself indications of success early on.

Before I made that $10K investment, I had already been coding for a few years. I knew I had an aptitude for it and a genuine interest. I wasn’t throwing money at a dream—I was investing in something I had already shown I could do.

So how do you know if you’re the kind of person who will succeed? Start small:

 • Try free resources. Learn the basics of HTML, CSS, or JavaScript online. See if you enjoy it.

 • Build something. Even a simple project like a to-do app will give you insight into whether you have the patience and curiosity for coding.

 • Solve problems. Try coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode.

If you find that you enjoy the process and make consistent progress, that’s a strong sign you can succeed.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Investment Matters

The skills you gain from learning to code aren’t just for landing that first job. They’re an investment in your lifetime earning potential. For me, the $10K I spent didn’t just result in a $25K salary increase—it laid the foundation for countless opportunities to grow my career.

If you’re considering switching to tech, don’t just look at the upfront cost. Look at what’s possible over the span of your career. How much more could you earn in five, ten, or twenty years? What doors could this open for you?

At the same time, be realistic about the risks and challenges. No one can guarantee your success, but you can set yourself up for it by testing the waters, starting small, and ensuring this path aligns with your skills and interests.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a career switch is a deeply personal decision. For me, the math was simple: the potential returns far outweighed the cost. But I also knew going in that success wasn’t guaranteed. I had to work for it, and I had to prove to myself that I could do it.

If you’re on the fence about learning to code, start small. Build confidence in your ability to stick with it before making a big investment. And when you’re ready to commit, know that this could be one of the best financial decisions you’ll ever make—if you’re willing to do the work.

The tech industry rewards skill, persistence, and creativity. If you’ve got those traits, the payoff can be life-changing.