My FINAL Post as a Nashville Software School Student

I didn’t know how I would feel on the final day of class at NSS. I wasn’t prepared for my emotional state. I mean we all endured 6 months of grueling coursework that only the strong could survive…and we did!

I can’t believe how wonderful this experience was. Not that I expected something less, just different. I have always had to fight for a seat at the table, and fight while I was there, but this is not what I experienced here. It was a surprise that makes me shout to anyone who looks like me, loves to be who they have always dreamed of becoming, but never had a space to cultivate their dreams.

I have heard many say that being a member of the elite of NSS is like “drinking the Kool-aide.” To that I would say, if given the opportunity, you’d better chug it! This is not that type of place, though.

I have been through A LOT of schooling and this isn’t that. This is like training to become a super hero…the one you never knew you could become.

The power I feel is not like the typical sort of thing. I have been accepted as I am in this space and people actually accepted me more because of that. I was able to express my feelings and apprehensions and they never fell on deaf ears.

I found my voice in this place.

When I made my final descent down the back stairs, I was overwhelmed with both grief and excitement. My life has changed in so many ways during this journey.

My brother died 3 months ago. I almost lost all hope because of that, but my NSS family stepped in and made sure I was ok. From my classmates to the instructors, it was a heap of love that propelled me forward and made me feel like I was loved.

I cannot fully explain my feelings because in many ways they are new to me. I have never been surrounded by such amazingly brilliant people who were not intimidated by another’s brilliance. It is because of this we all grew! And lifelong friendships were forged by the fire.

I owe no one because the work was all mine, but I feel responsible to energize and encourage others to do this. It is SO worth it.

Note: I learned a ton of software development stuff and can code like a beast when necessary, but I learned so much more: that I am more than ready and capable to change the world. Especially if these guys are doing it too!

I love you, Cohort 21 and NSS! Checkout our cohort website to see these wonderful people who have become my family.

And, while you’re at it, RSVP to our demo day if you are looking for some awesome devs to join your team!

And here is my resume if you want someone to help you change the world for your users!

For the final time, as an NSS student, I’m out!

Dr. T

Hello! I am Dr. T, developer and educator, who helps learners embrace their missions by activating their developer superhero within! You are the hero who you have been waiting for.