2 answers
Sabiha
Student
Gilgit
2
Questions
Updated
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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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2 answers
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
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..
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
65
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
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.
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, Vianne for the advice.
Sabiha