ALX Foundations: The Importance of Doing Hard Things

The prevailing motto at ALX is, “Do Hard Things.” This mantra is present in all that we do. From our learners to our alumni, the trait that sets ALXers apart from others is their drive to do the impossible. The ALX Foundations module forms the basis for this mantra, teaching you the skills you need to truly do hard things. Hear from some of our alumni about how Foundations has challenged and prepared them for the success they have today.

What is ALX Foundations?

Every ALX programme starts with ALX Foundations, a that prepares you to thrive in the digital workforce. The basis of the module teaches you foundational skills that will not only help in your upcoming specialisation programme, but also in your career after graduation. Throughout the course of this module, you will learn critical communication, leadership, and career-building skills to develop you into a well-rounded professional.

For a more comprehensive idea of what exactly you can expect to learn from Foundations, you can check out part 1 of this article.

In short, this module was developed in response to the changing climate of work. With hybrid and digital work taking over in tech and other industries, it is important that all learners can adapt. With a strong enough foundation, it's easy to adapt to whatever is thrown your way.

Hear From Our Learners: 4 Reasons Why Foundations Is Great

Don’t take our word for it – hear from our alumni who have successfully completed the Foundations programme. Below, some of our alumni have shared their experience with Foundations. Here are 4 of the biggest benefits of this module:

1. It’s difficult, but in a good way.

According to Nontsikelelo Cekiso, “My experience with ALX has been a rollercoaster of emotions. I found myself crying because I was overwhelmed in some weeks and celebrating my accomplishments in others. ALX is truly challenging us to do hard things. I have learned so much in these 13 weeks of being in the Foundations programme, in both emotional and educational aspects.

Following the recommended schedule helps a lot because it keeps me on track with the content. I cannot wait to start my tech specialisation.”

As you can see, Foundations has its challenges. It’s important to remember, however, that “doing hard things” means expanding the limits of our comfort zones, feeling challenged, and doing it anyway.

2. It helps you find and nurture your support network.

Itohowo Lawrence Paulinus notes, “There is an Igbo adage that says, ‘a child’s training is a communal effort,’ hence the reason for the name ‘Nworah’ – meaning community child or everyone’s child. 

This is a thank you message to ALX and its partners for providing this wonderful platform, with quality content [to help build] the African child. I must confess, the content is rich and reformative. Kudos to the ALX team.”

Together, we can accomplish much more than on our own. Part of the Foundations process is connecting you with learners in your cohort to learn and grow together. By working together, you can collaborate on creative briefs or help one another when you get stuck at roadblocks.

The idea of community carries over into your specialisation as you engage with other learners online or in-person at our Hubs. This network-building infrastructure is what will help jumpstart your career after graduation and give you others to rely on as you progress in your career.

3. You learn real, tangible skills that benefit you long after your specialisation programme.

“I was able to build my first website at milestone 14! I’m truly grateful for the help and support the ALX Foundations team has provided in gaining hard and soft skills.” 

– Mercy Akpan

The things you learn in Foundations are meant to be useful in the long-term. Before learning the technical skills of your specialisation, it’s important to beef up your professional skills too. These hard and soft skills combine to make you a well-rounded professional, which you can show off in your own personal website.

Your website acts as a portfolio and interactive CV that potential employers can look at to get a sense of what you can do. As you progress through your specialisation, you can constantly update your website to include any and all skills you’ve gained in order to keep your online CV up to date.

The skills training you get in Foundations is not just good for now, but good for life.

4. It prepares you for the digital workforce.

“My experience with ALX has been enriching, impactful, and incredibly beneficial. Through this journey, I’ve acquired skills in optimising my social media presence, connecting with like-minded individuals, engaging in the three daily activities, and implementing effective strategies to overcome imposter syndrome. 

Previously, I might have disregarded sharing my LinkedIn profile on a platform and continued leading a secluded and reserved life. However, thanks to ALX and the #doinghardthings mindset, I’ve gained a deeper understanding.” 

– Grace Kalu

The tech world is constantly in a state of change. New technologies mean new ways to work, new ways to interact, and new ways to get stuff done. Without proper training in how to adapt, this landscape can easily become overwhelming.

By working with change rather than against it, you’ll learn how to roll with the punches and come out on top. Whether that’s keeping LinkedIn up to date or using other social media to boost your skills, you’ll learn how to take a holistic approach to career-building that will set you up for success.

Summary

The ALX Foundations module is a challenging but rewarding part of our many tech training programmes. It is the basis for which the mantra “do hard things” becomes second nature to all. Register your interest for our next cohort in any of our training programmes today. Applications open in January – are you ready to do hard things? Register now!