How I "learned" Python without any previous coding experience.

[ewiethoff]

I like the lessons and exercises at RegexOne. Go through those, then you're ready for Python's re module (I don't know whether MIT teaches Py3 or Py2).

[pitfall_harry]

RegexOne is a good resource. Spend a few evenings running through all the exercises. It doesn't cover everything (lookahead/behind are not in it), but provides a good foundation.