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How can I grow good tech skills in computer science and also get better at talking and working with others while in college I want to be ready to do well in both the tech parts and the team parts of a tech job in the future? #Spring25
I'm an 18 year old senior at Paschal high school and I've been in coding classes at school for the past 5 years. I've decided to major in computer science in college, and I want to learn how to get grow good tech skills in computer science while also working with my peers. #Spring25
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Benedetta’s Answer
Computer Science Skills: Focus on the Skills of Tomorrow
To thrive as a software engineer, it's crucial to develop a strong foundation in key programming languages and technologies. Emphasize learning by doing, which means engaging in hands-on projects and coding exercises. This approach allows you to learn at your own pace and tailor your education to your interests. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals and build a network of peers and mentors who can support and challenge you.
Working in Teams: Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is essential for effective teamwork. Understand how you present yourself at work and how others perceive you. Consider taking personality and emotional intelligence assessments to gain insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. This self-awareness is the first step in managing stress and enhancing your interpersonal skills.
To further develop these skills, seek out hands-on experiences such as volunteering, participating in hackathons, or engaging in new activities both in and outside of high school. These experiences will expose you to diverse perspectives and help you build resilience and adaptability.
Research skills of tomorrow
hackathon
personality test
To thrive as a software engineer, it's crucial to develop a strong foundation in key programming languages and technologies. Emphasize learning by doing, which means engaging in hands-on projects and coding exercises. This approach allows you to learn at your own pace and tailor your education to your interests. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals and build a network of peers and mentors who can support and challenge you.
Working in Teams: Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is essential for effective teamwork. Understand how you present yourself at work and how others perceive you. Consider taking personality and emotional intelligence assessments to gain insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. This self-awareness is the first step in managing stress and enhancing your interpersonal skills.
To further develop these skills, seek out hands-on experiences such as volunteering, participating in hackathons, or engaging in new activities both in and outside of high school. These experiences will expose you to diverse perspectives and help you build resilience and adaptability.
Benedetta recommends the following next steps:
Paul Rogers
Solutions Engineer | Technical Consultant | Leadership Mentor
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Paul’s Answer
Hi David,
First off — you're thinking about the right things early, and that alone sets you up for a lot of future success!
To build strong tech skills:
Practice consistently: Build small projects outside of class. Real-world projects teach you how to apply what you learn — not just memorize it.
Learn how systems connect: Don't just study coding — understand how networks, databases, cloud, and security fit together. (Big skill in tech careers!)
To build strong people skills:
Work on small teams early: Whether it’s group projects, coding clubs, or internships — the best way to get better at teamwork is practicing it.
Learn how to communicate technical ideas simply: If you can explain something complicated in plain English, you're going to be very valuable in any tech company.
The best tech professionals aren't just great at the technology — they're great at connecting with people, solving real problems, and staying adaptable.
You're already asking the right questions — keep that hunger to grow, and you'll be ready for whatever opportunities come your way!
Join or start a small coding project team — even something casual with friends.
Practice explaining a project you built to someone not in tech.
Take one communication/public speaking course (even free on YouTube) — it’ll pay off hugely later.
First off — you're thinking about the right things early, and that alone sets you up for a lot of future success!
To build strong tech skills:
Practice consistently: Build small projects outside of class. Real-world projects teach you how to apply what you learn — not just memorize it.
Learn how systems connect: Don't just study coding — understand how networks, databases, cloud, and security fit together. (Big skill in tech careers!)
To build strong people skills:
Work on small teams early: Whether it’s group projects, coding clubs, or internships — the best way to get better at teamwork is practicing it.
Learn how to communicate technical ideas simply: If you can explain something complicated in plain English, you're going to be very valuable in any tech company.
The best tech professionals aren't just great at the technology — they're great at connecting with people, solving real problems, and staying adaptable.
You're already asking the right questions — keep that hunger to grow, and you'll be ready for whatever opportunities come your way!
Paul recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Alex’s Answer
To achieve both of these goals, try teaming up with classmates for projects. This way, you can learn to work well with others and gain the technical skills you need to succeed. All Software Engineers collaborate with different people to tackle challenges. The tricky part is identifying the real problem and finding the best solution. Just like anything else, practice makes perfect, and the best practice is working with others to solve problems. You might even find competitions to join that offer valuable hands-on experience. You've got this!