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Computer Science Internship help?
I'm currently a sophomore looking for an internship in software development/engineering is getting harder and harder. Any tips to stand out and make those internships next summer? I feel like I cant keep up with anyone these days...
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13 answers
Updated
Keeyan’s Answer
Hi Felipe! A great way to stand out is to get involved in extra-curricular, in addition to your university work. Here are a few suggestions I came up with along with my colleague Kal Yerraguntla:
- Start a hobby project: For example, a website, maybe Arduino, or a Raspberry PI based project, or even make a game.
- Get involved with the computing science society at your university: This looks great on a CV and can lead to you finding new interests in the field.
- Contribute to an open source project: Many projects are looking for contributors, from simple bug fixes to more grander goals, so you can find something that fits your skills and experience.
- Join an in person or online hackathon: It's a great way to meet new people starting out and have things to show off in your interviews and CV.
- Attend tech conferences: Similar to above, this is a great way to network, and find job opportunities, or learn what companies are looking for.
Just remember not to lose hope! It can be tough applying for your first job and it's a bit of a luck game as well. But applying to more roles and doing your research up front will increase your odds. You only need one "Yes" after all.
Best of luck in your internship search Felipe!
- Start a hobby project: For example, a website, maybe Arduino, or a Raspberry PI based project, or even make a game.
- Get involved with the computing science society at your university: This looks great on a CV and can lead to you finding new interests in the field.
- Contribute to an open source project: Many projects are looking for contributors, from simple bug fixes to more grander goals, so you can find something that fits your skills and experience.
- Join an in person or online hackathon: It's a great way to meet new people starting out and have things to show off in your interviews and CV.
- Attend tech conferences: Similar to above, this is a great way to network, and find job opportunities, or learn what companies are looking for.
Just remember not to lose hope! It can be tough applying for your first job and it's a bit of a luck game as well. But applying to more roles and doing your research up front will increase your odds. You only need one "Yes" after all.
Best of luck in your internship search Felipe!
Thank you so much, Keeyan!
Felipe
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Felipe,
Read and re-read Wyatt's answer - he is spot on with his advice and is a great read.
Other tips :
+ Corporate is not the only place to look for roles - what about volunteering or working at a non-profit, what about jobs at your school - such as a IT help desk ? If you are an animal lover, look and see if local Veterinarians office need IT help. If you are a car person, look at dealerships, body shops .... etc.
+ For interviewing - understand what an elevator pitch is (please Google it) and practice it
+ Interviewing is a skill - practice it, understand what a "good" interview is and how to respond to questions
+ As Wyatt mentioned - start small and build. Always understand how the project you work on provides value to the company. Then when you interview, you can talk about the tech skills and talk about the value your project brought to that company
+ If you want the role and feel comfortable - ALWAYS be HUMBLE and let the interviewer know, YOU CAN DO THE JOB.
+ Like it not AI is hear to stay - understand what can and cant be done with AI writing small snippets of code.
+ Understand at a high level or through small projects common Dev/Ops tools
+ Read Wyatt's response again.
Read and re-read Wyatt's answer - he is spot on with his advice and is a great read.
Other tips :
+ Corporate is not the only place to look for roles - what about volunteering or working at a non-profit, what about jobs at your school - such as a IT help desk ? If you are an animal lover, look and see if local Veterinarians office need IT help. If you are a car person, look at dealerships, body shops .... etc.
+ For interviewing - understand what an elevator pitch is (please Google it) and practice it
+ Interviewing is a skill - practice it, understand what a "good" interview is and how to respond to questions
+ As Wyatt mentioned - start small and build. Always understand how the project you work on provides value to the company. Then when you interview, you can talk about the tech skills and talk about the value your project brought to that company
+ If you want the role and feel comfortable - ALWAYS be HUMBLE and let the interviewer know, YOU CAN DO THE JOB.
+ Like it not AI is hear to stay - understand what can and cant be done with AI writing small snippets of code.
+ Understand at a high level or through small projects common Dev/Ops tools
+ Read Wyatt's response again.
Updated
David’s Answer
It’s totally normal to feel the competition heating up, but to stand out for software development internships as a sophomore, focus on building a solid portfolio of personal projects that showcase your coding skills and creativity—think small apps, websites, or open-source contributions—and make sure to share them on GitHub with clear README files. Also, learning popular languages like Python, JavaScript, or Java, and understanding core concepts like data structures and algorithms can really boost your resume. Networking is key too: reach out to local tech meetups, school clubs, or even connect with professionals on LinkedIn for advice or referrals. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of internships at smaller companies or startups, where you can gain real experience and make meaningful connections that will open doors for the future. Keep pushing forward—you’re building a foundation that will pay off!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Felipe
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Felipe,
With more than 25 years of experience in management roles within the corporate technology sector, I have reviewed a wide range of résumés and have a clear understanding of what makes a candidate truly stand out.
Landing a computer science internship may feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like everyone else is getting offers, but you are not behind and you absolutely can stand out. One of the best ways to do that is by building small, meaningful projects that show what you can do. These do not have to be complicated; even a basic web app, game, or tool you find useful can make a strong impression if it is well-organized and clearly documented on GitHub. Having two or three solid projects can give your resume a major boost and help you stand out from others who rely only on coursework. Participating in hackathons or contributing to open-source projects is another great way to build experience and show that you can work with others to solve problems.
When crafting your resume, focus on what you have built or accomplished rather than just listing classes. Use action verbs and, when possible, include specific results or tools used. Be sure to include links to your GitHub, LinkedIn, or portfolio. Networking also plays a huge role in finding opportunities. Reach out to former interns, current students, or professionals on LinkedIn with short, polite messages asking for advice or insight. Many people are happy to share what they know if you approach them respectfully and with curiosity. When applying, look beyond big-name companies. Startups, local businesses, research labs, and nonprofit organizations often offer excellent learning opportunities and are more open to early-career candidates. Do not be discouraged if job descriptions list tools or languages you do not yet know. Apply anyway and show that you are eager to learn. Internships are meant to be learning experiences. Most of all, keep going. Building your skills, projects, and confidence little by little will add up, and by the time next summer comes, you will be much closer to the opportunities you want. Keep showing up and you will get there.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
With more than 25 years of experience in management roles within the corporate technology sector, I have reviewed a wide range of résumés and have a clear understanding of what makes a candidate truly stand out.
Landing a computer science internship may feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like everyone else is getting offers, but you are not behind and you absolutely can stand out. One of the best ways to do that is by building small, meaningful projects that show what you can do. These do not have to be complicated; even a basic web app, game, or tool you find useful can make a strong impression if it is well-organized and clearly documented on GitHub. Having two or three solid projects can give your resume a major boost and help you stand out from others who rely only on coursework. Participating in hackathons or contributing to open-source projects is another great way to build experience and show that you can work with others to solve problems.
When crafting your resume, focus on what you have built or accomplished rather than just listing classes. Use action verbs and, when possible, include specific results or tools used. Be sure to include links to your GitHub, LinkedIn, or portfolio. Networking also plays a huge role in finding opportunities. Reach out to former interns, current students, or professionals on LinkedIn with short, polite messages asking for advice or insight. Many people are happy to share what they know if you approach them respectfully and with curiosity. When applying, look beyond big-name companies. Startups, local businesses, research labs, and nonprofit organizations often offer excellent learning opportunities and are more open to early-career candidates. Do not be discouraged if job descriptions list tools or languages you do not yet know. Apply anyway and show that you are eager to learn. Internships are meant to be learning experiences. Most of all, keep going. Building your skills, projects, and confidence little by little will add up, and by the time next summer comes, you will be much closer to the opportunities you want. Keep showing up and you will get there.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Thank you so much Wyatt! It honestly felt really overwhelming but I'll take what you said and start thinking about cool projects I can work on!
Felipe
Thank you so much, Wyatt!
thanaa
Felipe, I’m always happy to help, and you’re welcome to reach out anytime. The world truly needs curious, talented young graduates like you to bring fresh energy and ideas into the industry. You’ve already got an advantage, having grown up immersed in technology ready to take the torch from us seasoned veterans!
Wyatt .
Updated
Prema’s Answer
Hi Felipe!
1) Start Early - Companies are posting internships earlier in a school year so get a list of companies from your school, research, friends and family. Get your resume ready and send in your resume as soon as these jobs are posted. Most companies are looking to hire soon so the longer you wait, its more likely someone with a similar skillset will get the internship. Learning to network early is a good skill.
2) Now lets work backwards, you need a good resume. Check websites and come up with a good resume. Sometimes that is all it takes to standout. When I had to choose interns for my team, that was the first thing that got my attention. What was on the resume? Sometimes there were students with similar experience but the way they described that experience gave me the first impression. The more you write especially as a student, the more likely they want to interview you.
3) Do you have a good linkedIn page? Nowadays students are getting savvy with their pages, a good picture, important details about yourself are always good. Post articles that might be good. They show you are not just going to school but doing more. Recruiters and managers do check LinkedIn. Also, while we are on the subject, check your social media. Make private your instagram, X, Facebook or whatever you have and also google check to see what comes up when you are searched.
4) So now let's look at what you can do now at school to make a difference - projects that are independent and group that a manager can see. I reviewed a bunch of sites. The more personal projects you have that are out there serving a purpose show initiative. Group projects show working well with teams. The experience you have does not all have to be school related. Try to get as much knowledge in the data science and AI area. These are currently skills every company is looking for.
You got this! Good luck!
1) Start Early - Companies are posting internships earlier in a school year so get a list of companies from your school, research, friends and family. Get your resume ready and send in your resume as soon as these jobs are posted. Most companies are looking to hire soon so the longer you wait, its more likely someone with a similar skillset will get the internship. Learning to network early is a good skill.
2) Now lets work backwards, you need a good resume. Check websites and come up with a good resume. Sometimes that is all it takes to standout. When I had to choose interns for my team, that was the first thing that got my attention. What was on the resume? Sometimes there were students with similar experience but the way they described that experience gave me the first impression. The more you write especially as a student, the more likely they want to interview you.
3) Do you have a good linkedIn page? Nowadays students are getting savvy with their pages, a good picture, important details about yourself are always good. Post articles that might be good. They show you are not just going to school but doing more. Recruiters and managers do check LinkedIn. Also, while we are on the subject, check your social media. Make private your instagram, X, Facebook or whatever you have and also google check to see what comes up when you are searched.
4) So now let's look at what you can do now at school to make a difference - projects that are independent and group that a manager can see. I reviewed a bunch of sites. The more personal projects you have that are out there serving a purpose show initiative. Group projects show working well with teams. The experience you have does not all have to be school related. Try to get as much knowledge in the data science and AI area. These are currently skills every company is looking for.
You got this! Good luck!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Felipe
I am glad that this was helpful. Feel free to ask more questions as you move along in this journey and I will be happy to support you in any way I can.
Prema Sequeira
Updated
Mitch’s Answer
Finding a software internship can be a lengthy process, so stay patient. Companies offering internships are often busy with multiple projects. Good companies compensate their interns, and the best ones have engineers to support and mentor them.
Start by visiting your school's career center. Check if they have programs or career fairs with internship opportunities. For instance, Portland State University maintains a list of local employers offering internships and organizes a career fair where you can meet employers face-to-face. Portland Community College has a virtual Co-Op program for gaining tangible work experience. Meeting candidates in person at career fairs can help companies gauge their enthusiasm and interest.
If you're interested in a specific software field like cybersecurity, gaming, AI, or data science, look for local meet-ups. For example, the Apache Airflow project has regional meetups where people share experiences and insights. These events are usually free and great for learning, networking, and asking questions about careers and companies.
Consider contributing to an open-source project or joining a hackathon. Search for "internships" or "contributing to open source projects" on GitHub for opportunities. Be prepared to filter through old listings. If something interests you, dedicate time and effort to it. The effort and dedication you show others reflects you work ethic which will be considered when an internship becomes available. Connect with others, listen, and understand their roles. Offer to volunteer and help with projects or hackathons to gain experience and build relationships.
Look for internship programs at your university or community college.
Attend local meetups to learn about technology, careers and start building your social network
Search for open source opportunities and hackathons to build direct experience.
Start by visiting your school's career center. Check if they have programs or career fairs with internship opportunities. For instance, Portland State University maintains a list of local employers offering internships and organizes a career fair where you can meet employers face-to-face. Portland Community College has a virtual Co-Op program for gaining tangible work experience. Meeting candidates in person at career fairs can help companies gauge their enthusiasm and interest.
If you're interested in a specific software field like cybersecurity, gaming, AI, or data science, look for local meet-ups. For example, the Apache Airflow project has regional meetups where people share experiences and insights. These events are usually free and great for learning, networking, and asking questions about careers and companies.
Consider contributing to an open-source project or joining a hackathon. Search for "internships" or "contributing to open source projects" on GitHub for opportunities. Be prepared to filter through old listings. If something interests you, dedicate time and effort to it. The effort and dedication you show others reflects you work ethic which will be considered when an internship becomes available. Connect with others, listen, and understand their roles. Offer to volunteer and help with projects or hackathons to gain experience and build relationships.
Mitch recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Sharven’s Answer
I know it can feel tough right now, especially when it seems like everyone around you is ahead but you're not falling behind. You’re exactly where you need to be. Instead of trying to compete with the masses, try this: find your niche and go deep. In computer science, there are so many paths software, data, AI, cybersecurity, systems, and more. Explore your classes, notice which subjects excite you or feel natural, and let that guide you. When you find something you genuinely enjoy, it becomes easier to master, and that’s where you’ll shine. Becoming really good at one thing even if it’s not trendy can make you the go-to person for that skill.
The internship journey is less about being everywhere and more about being intentional. You don’t have to follow the crowd to succeed. Pick a path that feels meaningful to you and align your learning, projects, and networking efforts around it. This focused approach will help you stand out, especially when paired with curiosity and passion. There are always roles out there for people who bring quality, depth, and enthusiasm. Keep going you’re building something great, even if the progress feels slow right now. Your future self will thank you for staying true to what you love.
Only under immense pressure does carbon become a diamond without the struggle, it remains ordinary. Goodluck !
The internship journey is less about being everywhere and more about being intentional. You don’t have to follow the crowd to succeed. Pick a path that feels meaningful to you and align your learning, projects, and networking efforts around it. This focused approach will help you stand out, especially when paired with curiosity and passion. There are always roles out there for people who bring quality, depth, and enthusiasm. Keep going you’re building something great, even if the progress feels slow right now. Your future self will thank you for staying true to what you love.
Only under immense pressure does carbon become a diamond without the struggle, it remains ordinary. Goodluck !
Updated
Martha’s Answer
If you're looking to be an intern and stand out, the best place to start is by getting involved. Whether it's joining a team, volunteering for a project, or simply speaking up in meetings, every step you take helps you grow and connect with others. Reach out to people you know and don' be afraid to use your connections.
Don't be shy about showcasing your skills and accomplishments—you’ve worked hard for them! Share your wins, your ideas, and the unique perspective you bring. It’s not about bragging; it’s about letting others see what you’re capable of and how you can contribute.
Most importantly, be authentic and be yourself. People are drawn to realness. When you show up as your true self, you build trust, inspire others, and create space for genuine collaboration.
Don't be shy about showcasing your skills and accomplishments—you’ve worked hard for them! Share your wins, your ideas, and the unique perspective you bring. It’s not about bragging; it’s about letting others see what you’re capable of and how you can contribute.
Most importantly, be authentic and be yourself. People are drawn to realness. When you show up as your true self, you build trust, inspire others, and create space for genuine collaboration.
Updated
David’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed as a sophomore trying to break into software internships — you're early in your journey, and many others are in the same spot. To stand out, focus on building real, tangible projects you can showcase. Whether it's a personal website, a small app, or contributing to open-source, these projects show initiative and ability far more than just coursework. Keep your GitHub active and clean, and make sure your resume reflects impact — not just “what you did,” but “what result it had.” You don’t need to build the next Facebook — even a to-do app with thoughtful design and clean code demonstrates skills companies want to see.
At the same time, start networking early and often. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn, join university tech clubs, attend hackathons, and apply to everything — even smaller companies, startups, or unpaid research gigs. Many sophomores get internships through referrals or early connections rather than just cold applications. Don’t measure yourself against others' LinkedIn posts or what seem like polished success stories — everyone’s path is different, and growth in software comes gradually. Focus on learning, be consistent with coding practice (LeetCode, Codeforces, etc.), and stay curious. You’re doing better than you think — just keep going.
At the same time, start networking early and often. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn, join university tech clubs, attend hackathons, and apply to everything — even smaller companies, startups, or unpaid research gigs. Many sophomores get internships through referrals or early connections rather than just cold applications. Don’t measure yourself against others' LinkedIn posts or what seem like polished success stories — everyone’s path is different, and growth in software comes gradually. Focus on learning, be consistent with coding practice (LeetCode, Codeforces, etc.), and stay curious. You’re doing better than you think — just keep going.
Updated
Polina’s Answer
Feeling overwhelmed about finding a software development internship is common, but it's a great sign that you're thinking proactively as a sophomore. The key is to build a strong profile that makes you stand out from the crowd.
How to Stand Out: Strategies to Build Your Profile
While securing an internship is the goal, focusing on building a strong foundation will make your applications more successful.
* Contribute to Open-Source Projects: This is an excellent way to show you can work on real-world codebases. Look for projects on GitHub that use languages you know and filter for issues labeled **"good first issue"** or "beginner friendly" to get started.
* Create Your Own Projects: Personal projects showcase your passion, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Don't just build a project—solve a real-world problem, document your code thoroughly on GitHub, and be prepared to discuss the technologies you used and the challenges you overcame.
* Leverage Your College's Resources: Your university is a valuable resource. Take advantage of career fairs, connect with alumni on platforms like LinkedIn, and talk to professors who often have industry connections.
2. Big Company Internship Programs and How to Apply
Large companies like Microsoft, Google, IBM and Oracle offer structured and highly sought-after internship programs.
* Well-Known Programs
- Microsoft: Look for the Software Engineer Internship or the Explore Microsoft program, which is specifically for first- and second-year students to experience different aspects of software development. https://careers.microsoft.com/v2/global/en/students
- Google: The Software Engineer Intern program is the main offering. They also have the STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) for early-year students, which focuses on providing mentorship and training. https://www.google.com/about/careers/applications/buildyourfuture/internships
- Oracle:- Oracle offers various internships tailored to their specific products, allowing you to work on everything from cloud services to cutting-edge research at Oracle Labs.
- IBM https://www.ibm.com/careers/internships
* The Application Process
Applying for these internships is a competitive, multi-stage process that starts well in advance of the summer.
a. Timeline: Applications for summer internships typically open in the late summer or early fall of the preceding year. Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, it is crucial to apply as early as possible.
b. How to Apply: The primary method is through the official company careers website. You will need to submit a tailored resume, and some companies may request a cover letter or academic transcripts.
c. Interview Stages: The process usually includes:
* Online Assessment: An automated coding challenge to test your foundational data structures and algorithm skills.
* Technical Interviews: Video calls with engineers where you will solve coding problems and explain your thought process.
* Behavioral Interviews: These focus on your soft skills, teamwork, and past experiences. It's a good idea to practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
How to Stand Out: Strategies to Build Your Profile
While securing an internship is the goal, focusing on building a strong foundation will make your applications more successful.
* Contribute to Open-Source Projects: This is an excellent way to show you can work on real-world codebases. Look for projects on GitHub that use languages you know and filter for issues labeled **"good first issue"** or "beginner friendly" to get started.
* Create Your Own Projects: Personal projects showcase your passion, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Don't just build a project—solve a real-world problem, document your code thoroughly on GitHub, and be prepared to discuss the technologies you used and the challenges you overcame.
* Leverage Your College's Resources: Your university is a valuable resource. Take advantage of career fairs, connect with alumni on platforms like LinkedIn, and talk to professors who often have industry connections.
2. Big Company Internship Programs and How to Apply
Large companies like Microsoft, Google, IBM and Oracle offer structured and highly sought-after internship programs.
* Well-Known Programs
- Microsoft: Look for the Software Engineer Internship or the Explore Microsoft program, which is specifically for first- and second-year students to experience different aspects of software development. https://careers.microsoft.com/v2/global/en/students
- Google: The Software Engineer Intern program is the main offering. They also have the STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) for early-year students, which focuses on providing mentorship and training. https://www.google.com/about/careers/applications/buildyourfuture/internships
- Oracle:- Oracle offers various internships tailored to their specific products, allowing you to work on everything from cloud services to cutting-edge research at Oracle Labs.
- IBM https://www.ibm.com/careers/internships
* The Application Process
Applying for these internships is a competitive, multi-stage process that starts well in advance of the summer.
a. Timeline: Applications for summer internships typically open in the late summer or early fall of the preceding year. Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, it is crucial to apply as early as possible.
b. How to Apply: The primary method is through the official company careers website. You will need to submit a tailored resume, and some companies may request a cover letter or academic transcripts.
c. Interview Stages: The process usually includes:
* Online Assessment: An automated coding challenge to test your foundational data structures and algorithm skills.
* Technical Interviews: Video calls with engineers where you will solve coding problems and explain your thought process.
* Behavioral Interviews: These focus on your soft skills, teamwork, and past experiences. It's a good idea to practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
Updated
Luke’s Answer
Hi Felipe, it's completely normal to feel this way, but you're not alone. Computer Science internships are getting more competitive, but as a rising senior, I have some tips to help you secure one.
1) Keep your grades up: Focus on doing well in school and maintaining a good GPA. Some companies filter out resumes based on GPA, so this is important.
2) Join university organizations: Being part of a group, especially one that enhances your academic experience, can make your resume stand out. Plus, you'll have great topics to discuss during interviews.
3) Network: This is key. Attend career events, hackathons, club meetings, and conferences. Any chance you get to talk to industry professionals, take it.
4) Be yourself: This is crucial at career fairs or interviews. People appreciate authenticity. Don't hesitate to share your academic and personal interests.
1) Keep your grades up: Focus on doing well in school and maintaining a good GPA. Some companies filter out resumes based on GPA, so this is important.
2) Join university organizations: Being part of a group, especially one that enhances your academic experience, can make your resume stand out. Plus, you'll have great topics to discuss during interviews.
3) Network: This is key. Attend career events, hackathons, club meetings, and conferences. Any chance you get to talk to industry professionals, take it.
4) Be yourself: This is crucial at career fairs or interviews. People appreciate authenticity. Don't hesitate to share your academic and personal interests.
Updated
Neil’s Answer
Getting this type of internship is competitive, however here are a few things that might increase your chance of success.
As many answers have suggested, an interesting personal portfolio is going to be essential - showcase your projects on GitHub and have a professional looking LinkedIn profile.
Remember that whilst firms are looking to 'give something back' with an internship, they're also looking for something in it for them. So consider what you can bring. Have you had exposure to innovative / cutting edge thinking at Uni, for example? If so, highlight it. Ideally, showcase some projects where you've worked in a team and be clear how you contribute to that team - software development is team sport, so show you can fit in.
Also, many companies will have social programs to support internships - check out what they're saying about themselves and reflect that in your application.
Finally, be prepared to ask a 100 companies and don't worry if you get a lot of 'no' answers. Each time, ask for feedback and use that to make the next application stronger. You only need one 'yes'!
Best of luck.
As many answers have suggested, an interesting personal portfolio is going to be essential - showcase your projects on GitHub and have a professional looking LinkedIn profile.
Remember that whilst firms are looking to 'give something back' with an internship, they're also looking for something in it for them. So consider what you can bring. Have you had exposure to innovative / cutting edge thinking at Uni, for example? If so, highlight it. Ideally, showcase some projects where you've worked in a team and be clear how you contribute to that team - software development is team sport, so show you can fit in.
Also, many companies will have social programs to support internships - check out what they're saying about themselves and reflect that in your application.
Finally, be prepared to ask a 100 companies and don't worry if you get a lot of 'no' answers. Each time, ask for feedback and use that to make the next application stronger. You only need one 'yes'!
Best of luck.
Updated
Joanna’s Answer
I completely understand where you're coming from, but I want to emphasize that everyone is on their own journey. It's tempting to compare but it's never a fair comparison if everyone is running a different race. In terms of standing out, my greatest advice is to tap into your passion. People stand out when you see their work and can see the passion they were driven by. A great way to do this is starting fun projects that have real world impacts. You can focus on issues that you see either in your life or in your environment, and work on finding technical solutions that would solve these. Curate a well-structured resume that doesn't just showcase your projects, but also the passion behind them.
In addition to this, if you prefer group projects, you could get involved with your school's computer science or engineering society/clubs to see if they have open projects going on. If they don't, it'll still provide you with a chance to meet other people who have the same passions as you, with whom you could possibly create projects with.
Finally, keep practicing. Projects are a great way to do this, and so are things like coding exercises that can be found on sites like LeetCode. Another great outlet is hackathons. This is a great place to not only practice and learn new skills, but also network with companies and people with more experience.
I'd also like to add that it's okay to not know everything. What's important is to keep learning every chance you get and be ready to explore.
I wish you all the best on your own unique journey!
In addition to this, if you prefer group projects, you could get involved with your school's computer science or engineering society/clubs to see if they have open projects going on. If they don't, it'll still provide you with a chance to meet other people who have the same passions as you, with whom you could possibly create projects with.
Finally, keep practicing. Projects are a great way to do this, and so are things like coding exercises that can be found on sites like LeetCode. Another great outlet is hackathons. This is a great place to not only practice and learn new skills, but also network with companies and people with more experience.
I'd also like to add that it's okay to not know everything. What's important is to keep learning every chance you get and be ready to explore.
I wish you all the best on your own unique journey!