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how to make my subject strong ?

I plan to pursue Computer Science as my major, and I would like to know what additional activities I should focus on beyond my college coursework to strengthen my profile and improve my chances of getting into a good university. I am especially interested in learning about online courses, summer camps, online programming platforms or other programs that I can apply for to build my skills and gain more experience in this field

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Vianne’s Answer

Hi Sabiha,

Doing well in your computer science classes is important, but what really makes you stand out is what you do outside of them. Schools love to see that you're truly interested in CS and that you explore it on your own, not just because it's your major.

One great way to do this is by practicing coding regularly. Websites like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Codeforces help with problem-solving, while Replit and GitHub let you create and share projects. Even small projects like a simple game, a website, or a script that automates a task are valuable if you can explain them. For structured learning, online courses from Harvard's CS50, Coursera, edX, or Udemy are excellent for deepening your knowledge and showing initiative. Summer coding camps, university programs, and hackathons (even online ones) are also fantastic because they mix learning with teamwork and real deadlines.

Also, try to use CS in ways that help others or connect to your interests. Join or start a coding club, tutor classmates, build a website for a local group, or contribute to open-source projects. You don’t have to do everything at once. Choose a few activities you enjoy and stick with them. Consistency and true curiosity are much more important than having a long list of activities, and that's what really strengthens your profile for a good university.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Vianne for the advice. Sabiha
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

To strengthen your profile for a Computer Science major, start by mastering key programming languages like Python, Java, or C++, and studying data structures and algorithms. Explore MIT OpenCourseWare for free, comprehensive computer science courses and follow YouTube channels like Traversy Media, Academind, and Tech With Tim for valuable tutorials. Platforms like W3Schools, Khan Academy, and freeCodeCamp also provide strong foundations in these areas.

Build personal projects and contribute to open-source projects on GitHub to demonstrate your skills. Engage in coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, TopCoder, and Exercism.io to improve problem-solving abilities. Participate in hackathons and coding competitions such as Major League Hacking (MLH), Google Code Jam, and Hacktoberfest to refine your skills, collaborate under pressure, and network with industry professionals.

To gain real-world experience, seek internships and volunteer opportunities via Internships.com and LinkedIn. Look for free virtual internships through programs like Outreachy, which offers paid remote internships for open-source contributions, or Google Summer of Code (GSoC), which funds students to work on open-source projects with mentoring. You can also volunteer at local coding clubs or contribute to open-source projects on GitHub. Establishing a strong online presence on LinkedIn and GitHub will help you build your professional network, enhance visibility, and create a competitive profile for top universities and future employers.
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Paing’s Answer

Computer Science is a broad subject; there are a lot of subjects like Information and Technology, software programming [like C++,C#, Java, Html, Css, PHP, Python, React Js, Ruby, etc.] and Hardware programming; like networking, wireless networking, cloud computing and ethical hacking, etc.]. That's after graduation before the graduation, you need to learn math, physics, statistics, probability, formulas, etc. these are the basic. And also in computer programming you have to choose which part DATA, FRONT END or BACK END, Gaming, Animation, etc.
Make sure you need to graduate from the college for the proper country.

1st is getting mentor like Steve teaching Zuck.
2nd is finding the right choice of the path.
3rd is grow your connection in linkedin .
4th having friends will also helpful for the jobs.

Hope you GOOD LUCK
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Darren’s Answer

Effective self-learning in CS means learning by doing. Practising regularly on platforms such as LeetCode or HackerRank helps you break down problems, think algorithmically, and build persistence. When you get stuck, learning to read documentation, search intelligently, and debug your own code is a critical skill that admissions committees implicitly look for.

Personal projects are where self-learning becomes most visible. Teaching yourself a new language, framework, or library in order to build an app or tool demonstrates independence and curiosity. Documenting your work on GitHub and reflecting on what you learned shows maturity as a learner, not just a student.

Participating in summer programs, hackathons, or coding challenges further reinforces this mindset by pushing you to learn quickly, collaborate, and adapt. Overall, a strong CS applicant shows they can take ownership of their learning, explore topics beyond the syllabus, and turn curiosity into real, working projects.
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Jerome’s Answer

I am a big believer in volunteering and giving back. I would almost bet money that there is some sort of nonprofit in the community that is geared at helping younger kids learn technology and how to code. If you can take the skills you have learned and help others find success, not only will that look good on college applications, but the people who work for the nonprofit will likely be willing to write you a reference..
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Caitlin’s Answer

Hi Sabiha,

This is a great question! As many have said, doing well in your classes is important. But there are lots of other skills and attributes that make someone a stand-out college applicant, or job candidate! I think this is a good opportunity to find something really interesting to YOU and get involved. Is it through your church, an organization you want to volunteer with, a club at school? It does not need to be directly related to computer science. It can feel really meaningful and rewarding, and help you be a more well-rounded person if it aligns with other interests and passions that you have.

Are there opportunities for leadership? Whether you are a freshman or a senior in high school, it is not too late to get involved. Find out where there are needs that can help you showcase your skills. Communication skills, public speaking, working as part of a team, overcoming interpersonal challenges, all of those are things you will encounter in college and beyond.

I personally think it is better to stick with 1-2 things that you can be really active in, instead of joining 5 clubs but not doing much more than attending basic meetings. Find places that you feel inspired to contribute and lead!

Good luck!
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Andrea’s Answer

I want to echo answers from Jerome and Caitlin - I think volunteering is a great way to practice skills and give back to your community. It's also the case that if you offer your skills to a nonprofit, or maybe a club at school, etc. they are likely to give you more autonomy and ability to grow than a prescribed internship. The needs can be really challening and nuanced - and they will be real world. Being able to say you helped an organization solve a real problem is a powerful story to be able to tell and unique learning experience.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you have interest in Computer Science.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Start learning simple programming languages, eg python. There are plenty of resources online
2. Start writing simple program..When you get familiar with the language, you can do some small projects, eg control a toy car or robotic arm.
3. Write more. Practice makes perfect!
4. You can learn another programming language after familiar one.
5. Attend the information session hosts by computer science department of colleges. Find out entry criteria. Work hard od your academic to meet the criteria.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Sandeep’s Answer

Hello Sabiha,

To strengthen your CS background, focus on building skills outside class. Practice regularly on coding platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank, take a few well-structured online courses in programming and data structures, and try to build small projects of your own. If possible, join summer camps, coding bootcamps, or tech clubs, and participate in hackathons or competitions. These activities show real interest and hands-on experience, which universities value a lot.
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Ashutosh’s Answer

For computer science, focus on learning Mathematics, Statistics, and Probability Theory. Gaining work experience in these areas is always valuable. You might find it easier to get experience in related fields like economics, biostatistics, or pharmaceuticals. Taking summer classes and doing hands-on internships can also be very helpful.
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