3 answers
7
Questions
Asked
4479 views
What are the best options for me as someone interested in Cybersecurity and/or Software Engineer as a career?
Hello, I am a Junior who is researching about what colleges to go, I am interested in doing cybersecurity and software engineer as my career(another question is what is the difference in software engineer and software developer and computer science). I live around the Washington area and am interested in attending UW but their acceptance is under 50%, I don't do much extracurriculars, I do MMA (classes), Soccer (scrimmage every week) and Swim (classes)and some volunteer hours, but I have a good GPA. I was wondering how I could improve my chances of getting there and/or other colleges that I could be accepted in (does not have to necessarily be in the WA area).
Login to comment
3 answers
Updated
roger’s Answer
You might look into any and all programs as a volunteer or possible intern opportunity, be whiling to relocate to explore your opportunities and open doors easier for yourself
Okay, thank you!
Dani
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Dani,
Great your are looking into college so early. The best thing I can recommend at this stage is to call the school and ask what they are looking for. If you are near campus see if you can schedule a visit either now or over the summer. speaking with an admissions counselor can help you iron out a plan as to what they are looking for and what will help differentiate you. That way when school is back in session in the fall you can work your plan and you know the key dates you need in order to be successful. On many college visits there's usually a rep from various schools like the college of engineering who might be able to answer your questions. Otherwise you can just call the school and ask.
It sounds like you have some nice extracurriculars so keep that going. As well as see if there are any places in your local area you might be able to volunteer or learn about cybersecurity. Potentially even take some classes related to it at your school or local community college. (ask your guidance counselor if any are offered)
Great your are looking into college so early. The best thing I can recommend at this stage is to call the school and ask what they are looking for. If you are near campus see if you can schedule a visit either now or over the summer. speaking with an admissions counselor can help you iron out a plan as to what they are looking for and what will help differentiate you. That way when school is back in session in the fall you can work your plan and you know the key dates you need in order to be successful. On many college visits there's usually a rep from various schools like the college of engineering who might be able to answer your questions. Otherwise you can just call the school and ask.
It sounds like you have some nice extracurriculars so keep that going. As well as see if there are any places in your local area you might be able to volunteer or learn about cybersecurity. Potentially even take some classes related to it at your school or local community college. (ask your guidance counselor if any are offered)
Thank you Jason!
Dani
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hi Dani! It’s awesome that you’re already exploring careers in cybersecurity and software engineering. Both are in high demand and offer exciting paths! To boost your chances of getting into UW or similar schools, keep your GPA strong, but also try to show interest through tech-related extracurriculars like coding clubs, online courses (from Coursera or freeCodeCamp), or competitions like CyberPatriot or hackathons. Your current activities like MMA, soccer, and swimming show discipline and teamwork, just try to tie them to leadership or long-term commitment in your application.
As for colleges, in addition to UW, look into schools like WSU, Western Washington, Oregon State, UC Riverside, or even ASU. Many have solid CS or cybersecurity programs and more accessible admission. And to clarify: Software Engineers focus on designing and building systems, Software Developers often focus more on coding specific features, and Computer Science s the broader academic field behind both. Keep exploring and building your profile, and you’ll open a lot of doors! Good luck!
As for colleges, in addition to UW, look into schools like WSU, Western Washington, Oregon State, UC Riverside, or even ASU. Many have solid CS or cybersecurity programs and more accessible admission. And to clarify: Software Engineers focus on designing and building systems, Software Developers often focus more on coding specific features, and Computer Science s the broader academic field behind both. Keep exploring and building your profile, and you’ll open a lot of doors! Good luck!
Thank you a lot Sneha!
Dani