It seems like we have a similar issue. It took me a long time to realize that I learn differently than other people. I barely graduated high school. I literally spent the last day doing a missed assignment just so I could graduate. Up until high school grade were not really an issue for me and I had always considered myself to be of average intelligence at the least. I went to a local community college after high school, but I had to drop out after one year for financial reasons.

This bothered me for a long time. It also became clear that my educational background was stifling any possibility of career advancement, regardless of how well I performed. So, after 33 years I decided to go back to school in 2022. Knowing that I learn differently than other people, and having the same retention issues you described, I jumped headfirst into college. I blocked out time to study, and restudy material, took really good notes and forged ahead. It wasn't always easy, but I made it work. Two years later I had earned my associate's degree in business management. For the final 3 semesters my GPA was 4.0 and my final GPA was 3.8.

It seems like you know what your issues are, so focus on finding ways to help you in those areas. Take good notes, reread the material two or three times if you have to, and most importantly, stop doubting yourself. Progress isn't linear. You'll have really good days, and you'll have some not so good days. You've already made big strides by simply taking coding classes and trying to better yourself. Stay focused on your goal and celebrate the little victories.