2 answers
Brennan
Student
Santa Clarita, California
1
Question
Asked
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As I am preparing to go into college, what is the best way to make sure that I am as involved as possible without doing too much?
I am going into a Computer Science major and what to try other things that could possibly coincide with it. Thanks!
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2 answers
Jennifer Akers
Principal Data Scientist, Data Practice Lead, Professor of Practice
2
Answers
Wichita, Kansas
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Brennan!
Computer science offers a lot of flexibility in terms of career path. I imagine the university you choose will likely have courses you are required to take, and these should give you a range of perspective on skills and careers. It is important to understand what you love doing just as much as what you don't love doing. Along with the required software classes, I would say to explore cybersecurity which is a hot topic these days.
In addition to any required hardware classes you may take, try one that goes more in-depth. Due to the push for AI, we've seen an increase in compute and needing hardware skills out in the market. So if you like the hardware side of things, go for a career in that area.
Speaking of AI, take an intro to data science class--you may find you have a passion for it! If you really like the software side of things, try taking a more advanced data science course on machine learning, AI, LLMs--whatever sounds interesting to you.
There's also robotics if you have an interest in that. Some universities have courses on drones, smart cars, and smart cities as well.
If you have the time and opportunity, try taking a class in a different programming language--this will help you develop flexibility for picking up a different language while you are still in school.
Beyond the classes, attend talks at your university from different departments like the business school and the math department. It is important to enjoy your time in college as it goes by very fast, but do try to think of it as the start of your career--be involved, network, and work hard!
Computer science offers a lot of flexibility in terms of career path. I imagine the university you choose will likely have courses you are required to take, and these should give you a range of perspective on skills and careers. It is important to understand what you love doing just as much as what you don't love doing. Along with the required software classes, I would say to explore cybersecurity which is a hot topic these days.
In addition to any required hardware classes you may take, try one that goes more in-depth. Due to the push for AI, we've seen an increase in compute and needing hardware skills out in the market. So if you like the hardware side of things, go for a career in that area.
Speaking of AI, take an intro to data science class--you may find you have a passion for it! If you really like the software side of things, try taking a more advanced data science course on machine learning, AI, LLMs--whatever sounds interesting to you.
There's also robotics if you have an interest in that. Some universities have courses on drones, smart cars, and smart cities as well.
If you have the time and opportunity, try taking a class in a different programming language--this will help you develop flexibility for picking up a different language while you are still in school.
Beyond the classes, attend talks at your university from different departments like the business school and the math department. It is important to enjoy your time in college as it goes by very fast, but do try to think of it as the start of your career--be involved, network, and work hard!
QUOC THIEN LAM
1
Answer
East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Updated
QUOC THIEN’s Answer
Hey there! There are so many chances to explore and learn about yourself. Why not start by joining some clubs at your university? The Cyber Security Club or Hack(H)er are awesome choices.
If you're a bit shy and not into a lot of chatting, you can still grow by practicing coding on sites like HackerRank or LeetCode. You might also want to try out coding competitions on those platforms—they're a fun way to boost your skills and push yourself!
If you're a bit shy and not into a lot of chatting, you can still grow by practicing coding on sites like HackerRank or LeetCode. You might also want to try out coding competitions on those platforms—they're a fun way to boost your skills and push yourself!