Module 1: Tips for Success

The Importance of Prework

Because of the challenging nature of this program, we want you to come ready to sprint on day one. To help you prepare, complete the prework modules before your first day. They provide the preliminary skills and information you need to begin the course, as well as a glimpse of what's to come.

Completing the prework is vital to your success in the digital marketing bootcamp. Here are some tips for completing and submitting the prework:

  • Review each module in sequential order since they build on one another (not required but highly recommended).
    • Complete each module and the recommended readings.
  • Set up all necessary accounts needed for the program (see Module 3).
    • Complete the Google form confirming that you’ve set up your personal accounts.
  • Complete the Module 6 Career Services activity (not required but highly recommended).
    • If you work on this activity, you’ll need to open a new Google doc and add your findings.
    • Submit your completed Google doc link to Bootcamp Spot.

Tips for Virtual Learning

Because of the COVID-19 crisis, many education programs in the U.S. have moved their classes to an online format. Our program is no different. While this is necessary to keep everyone healthy, we know it may cause some uncertainty. Rest assured that all of our instructors have undergone training in using virtual conference platforms for online teaching, and they receive ongoing support throughout the course.

We know that not everyone feels confident about learning in an online format, but we’re here to help you succeed. Use these tips to help you get the most out of your class:

  • Recognize that this may be uncomfortable at first. You might be new to online learning. Even if you aren’t, juggling the various platforms may initially feel confusing and clunky. You won’t be alone in feeling this way. Online learning has gotten more popular, but it is still fairly new and your instructor may be learning alongside you. Be patient with your classmates, the instructional staff and, most importantly, with yourself. Everyone will experience a learning curve, but eventually things will normalize and become routine. Until that point, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

  • Get to know your classmates and instructors. You’ll get more out of the course if it feels like you’re part of a community. Camaraderie can be difficult to develop through a computer screen, but there are ways to get to know your fellow classmates and instructional staff. Participate in class and in your cohort’s Slack space (more on Slack coming up). You don’t have to get too personal, but you can do things like: share your thoughts on brands you like/dislike, talk about your experiences with marketing as a customer, or share a funny ad or marketing-related meme you’ve seen.

  • Treat class time like you would a live class. If you were sitting in a classroom, there would be few potential distractions around you. Likewise, you should make your environment as distraction-free as possible. If you can, go to a quiet room, silence your phone, and ask others in your home to avoid distracting you while you’re online. At the same time, be forgiving of yourself and others if a distraction does arise. If you need to step away, simply turn off your mic and camera for privacy and to let others know you're unavailable for a moment.

  • Budget time for classwork. Since most of us are now home all the time, the days can feel like they blend into one another. You may not realize that you’re getting close to the due date of an assignment in these circumstances. Deliberately scheduling time throughout the week for coursework will help. Set aside three hours, 3 to 4 times a week for studying and doing homework. It won’t feel as overwhelming this way, and you won’t have to work on assignments last-minute! More on time management tactics in the next module.