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Aeman
Student
Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
6
Questions
Updated
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How to plan my dropped year if i plan to major in AI?
After my 2nd year i applied for a scholarship and wasn't able to get it, so i dropped the year to apply again next year . I would like to ask for some tips and skills that i should acquire in this year so my application becomes strong and so my knowledge. I don't want to waste this year doing nothing so suggest any skills that will surely help me get into a good college and also help me in my future career.
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1 answer
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Focus on building strong foundations in mathematics, Python programming, and AI through platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, or YouTube. Work on AI projects such as image classifiers and chatbots, documenting and showcasing them on GitHub. Strengthen your knowledge through hackathons, Kaggle competitions, and networking with alumni, professors, and industry professionals. Complement AI learning with technical skills such as Java, version control with Git, databases, and cloud platforms. Stay updated on AI and technology trends by following industry news, research papers, and professional forums. Obtain relevant certifications and keep a record of your learning and achievements to demonstrate that you have used your time productively and are a curious, self-motivated learner. Developing these skills while building a strong portfolio will enhance your profile and help you stand out to scholarship selection committees.
During a gap year, participate in in-person or virtual platforms like Virtual Internships, CIEE Virtual Global Internships, and Practera, which offer project-based work, mentorship, and certificates. Develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability through extracurricular activities, volunteering, or internships. Understanding AI ethics and gaining domain knowledge in fields like healthcare, finance, or robotics will make your projects more impactful. Structure your year in phases: start with math and programming, move to projects and advanced AI topics, participate in competitions, and finally polish your scholarship application with a portfolio, essays, and recommendation letters. This approach strengthens both your application and career foundation.
During a gap year, participate in in-person or virtual platforms like Virtual Internships, CIEE Virtual Global Internships, and Practera, which offer project-based work, mentorship, and certificates. Develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability through extracurricular activities, volunteering, or internships. Understanding AI ethics and gaining domain knowledge in fields like healthcare, finance, or robotics will make your projects more impactful. Structure your year in phases: start with math and programming, move to projects and advanced AI topics, participate in competitions, and finally polish your scholarship application with a portfolio, essays, and recommendation letters. This approach strengthens both your application and career foundation.
Thank you so much!