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Hi, I’m a first-generation college student from a small town, studying computer science at a community college. Growing up, I saw how limited access to technology impacted my community, especially for small businesses and students. I’m passionate about using tech to create solutions that uplift underserved areas, but I’m unsure how to get started while juggling school and part-time work. I want to make a meaningful impact but also need guidance on managing stress and building a career path that aligns with my values? #spring25

Hi, I’m a first-generation college student from a small town, studying computer science at a community college. Growing up, I saw how limited access to technology impacted my community, especially for small businesses and students. I’m passionate about using tech to create solutions that uplift underserved areas, but I’m unsure how to get started while juggling school and part-time work. I want to make a meaningful impact but also need guidance on managing stress and building a career path that aligns with my values.

#spring25

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Laurie’s Answer

Hi Matthew,

That's an awesome goal you've set for yourself! Good for you!

Here are a couple of ideas you might want to think about: Try reaching out to your local library, church, or community/senior center to see if they have any volunteer opportunities. This could let you work with others on a tech project that benefits your community. There might also be online options that fit your schedule since you're balancing school and work.

Another idea is to visit your community college's career center and ask about internships that make a difference locally. Maybe there's a nonprofit that could use someone with IT skills.

Wishing you the best of luck with everything!

Laurie recommends the following next steps:

Check with your local SBA office (Small Business Administration)
Check with your local community centers for any available initiatives
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Leo’s Answer

Hi Matthew,
I was a community college student as well when I started off. I absolutely love the community college system. You get more dedicated attention and IMO the education is better than university. I used to check out books about tech from the library. Please note that when I was in school (early 1990's), there weren't many books on computers. I ready everything I could and would sit down with my Leading Edge 8088 computer in DOS and do the things the books showed. That's how I originally learned. I didn't have to sign up for anything or pay money. Learn for free starting out. There's lot of free resources that are very valuable. Learn what it takes to get a proper CS education (what type of classes are taught, etc.).
Formulate a plan. Part of that is knowing what Community College courses you need to take that will better prepare you for online, certification or university CS education.
I can tell you from experience that you'll need the following baseline understandings of:
* Basic Math
* Algebra
* Statistics
* Logical thinking (think of this as being pretty good at structuring things in a logical order)
* Typing

That's a great start for community college courses. Get those books for free from the library or go online to places such as khan Academy or Codecademy and soak up as much free stuff as you can find. It's all applicable.

Best of luck to you. You got this man!
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Hema’s Answer

Join the Microsoft AI Skills Fest to boost your skills. Explore free online Microsoft events to learn new things. Dedicate time each day to improve your tech abilities. Stay committed to finishing college and aim for a job in a tech company. Start building your professional network now; LinkedIn is a great starting point. Focus on learning and growing, not just the results. Ask yourself: What can I do today to improve myself? Even if it's just 30 minutes, use that time to learn new skills. Dive into topics like generative AI and keep advancing daily.
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Shaleena’s Answer

💡 Begin with Small Steps, Local Impact, and Clear Purpose
Support a local small business or student group by working on a simple tech project, such as creating a basic website or digital tool.

Use your class projects to tackle real issues in your community.

📚 Learn & Grow Wisely
Take advantage of free resources like freeCodeCamp, Dev.to, or YouTube to develop your skills at your own pace.

Join online communities for encouragement and inspiration.

🧭 Meaningful Career Journey
Now: Create a small portfolio with projects that benefit your community.

Next 1–2 years: Secure an internship or junior developer position at an organization with a meaningful mission.

Long-Term: Start or become part of a tech-for-good initiative.

🧘‍♂️ Balance and Self-Care
Set aside time for short study or project sessions.

Keep organized with simple tools like Google Calendar or Notion.

Every bit of progress counts—even if it’s gradual.

You’re on the right track—smart, motivated, and focused on your community.
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Andres’s Answer

Hi Matthew, as a future engineer, you can develop different solutions to implement and make a difference in your community. You can learn in-depth about telecommunications and how you can bring it to the community. Improve some of the problems you identify. Focus on the most common problem, then look for not just one, but several solutions. Remember, there are always many solutions to a problem. Don't give up if you encounter obstacles; it's part of the process.
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Lilly’s Answer

Balancing school and work isn’t easy, but it’s clear there’s a lot of heart behind your goals! Don’t hesitate to visit your college’s career center. They might know of internships or community partnerships where your skills would be a huge asset.

Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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