Finding a job while completing the BCIT CST

Hi. I'm currently enrolled in the CST program at BCIT and have heard from some of the teachers and students that many students are able to find work as developers before even completing the entire diploma requirements. I'd like to hear if anyone here has had luck in this path. If so, what was your strategy? Did you have a background in tech or dev before joining the program? Full time or part time? Salary expectations for jobs at this stage as opposed to post diploma?

Any input would be greatly valued. Thanks!