14 answers
Kaden
Student
Frankfort, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
2369 views
What is it like to work from home as a computer science major What are the best skills to learn early in computer science? Where do you think computer science will be in a few years? Will it be overran by AI??
I want to major in computer science in college, most likely in some sort of software development. Are there any tips to keep in mind in this process, and should I focus on something other than software development?
14 answers
Aml Omar
Marketing & Business Development Consultant
26
Answers
Egypt
Updated
Aml’s Answer
If you're considering Computer Science and software development, I wouldn't avoid the field because of AI. I would, however, change how you prepare for it.
Working remotely as a software developer can be great: you get flexibility, access to global companies, and often more control over your schedule. But remote work requires strong communication, self-management, documentation, and the ability to work independently. It isn't simply "working from home instead of an office."
Skills I'd prioritize early
1. Programming fundamentals
Start with one language and learn it properly. Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, Java, or C++ can all be good choices depending on your goals.
Focus on:
Variables, functions, data structures
Object-oriented programming
Algorithms & problem solving
Debugging
Git/GitHub
Basic testing
Don't rush into learning five languages at once.
2. Computer science fundamentals
Your degree should give you a foundation in:
Data structures & algorithms
Operating systems
Databases
Computer networks
Software engineering
Computer architecture
Security fundamentals
These concepts will remain useful even as specific tools and programming languages change.
3. Build projects
This is probably the most important advice.
Don't spend four years only completing assignments. Build things that solve actual problems. Start small, then progressively build more complex applications.
A portfolio showing what you built, why you built it, and how you solved problems will be much more valuable than simply saying you completed courses.
What about AI?
I don't think software development will disappear. I think the definition of a software developer will change.
AI is increasingly capable of generating code, so knowing how to type code quickly will become less valuable. Understanding what should be built, why it should be built, how systems work, how to evaluate AI-generated code, and how to debug and improve it will become more valuable.
Think of AI as a tool you need to become excellent at using—not as your competition.
A developer who can use AI effectively + understands computer science fundamentals will likely be much more valuable than someone who either refuses to use AI or relies on it without understanding the code.
Should you focus on something besides software development?
Yes—but I wouldn't abandon software development.
Think of software development as your foundation, then develop a specialization around it.
For example:
CS + AI/ML
CS + Cybersecurity
CS + Cloud/DevOps
CS + Data Engineering
CS + Robotics
CS + Product/Business
You don't need to choose the specialization immediately. Use your first year or two of college to explore.
If I were starting CS today, my priority would be:
Strong CS fundamentals → Build real projects → Learn AI-assisted development → Get internships/real experience → Specialize based on what I enjoy and where I see opportunities.
And one final piece of advice: don't choose Computer Science because you think it guarantees a high-paying job. Choose it if you genuinely enjoy solving problems, learning technical concepts, and building things. The field changes constantly, so curiosity and the ability to keep learning are arguably your most important long-term skills.
Working remotely as a software developer can be great: you get flexibility, access to global companies, and often more control over your schedule. But remote work requires strong communication, self-management, documentation, and the ability to work independently. It isn't simply "working from home instead of an office."
Skills I'd prioritize early
1. Programming fundamentals
Start with one language and learn it properly. Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, Java, or C++ can all be good choices depending on your goals.
Focus on:
Variables, functions, data structures
Object-oriented programming
Algorithms & problem solving
Debugging
Git/GitHub
Basic testing
Don't rush into learning five languages at once.
2. Computer science fundamentals
Your degree should give you a foundation in:
Data structures & algorithms
Operating systems
Databases
Computer networks
Software engineering
Computer architecture
Security fundamentals
These concepts will remain useful even as specific tools and programming languages change.
3. Build projects
This is probably the most important advice.
Don't spend four years only completing assignments. Build things that solve actual problems. Start small, then progressively build more complex applications.
A portfolio showing what you built, why you built it, and how you solved problems will be much more valuable than simply saying you completed courses.
What about AI?
I don't think software development will disappear. I think the definition of a software developer will change.
AI is increasingly capable of generating code, so knowing how to type code quickly will become less valuable. Understanding what should be built, why it should be built, how systems work, how to evaluate AI-generated code, and how to debug and improve it will become more valuable.
Think of AI as a tool you need to become excellent at using—not as your competition.
A developer who can use AI effectively + understands computer science fundamentals will likely be much more valuable than someone who either refuses to use AI or relies on it without understanding the code.
Should you focus on something besides software development?
Yes—but I wouldn't abandon software development.
Think of software development as your foundation, then develop a specialization around it.
For example:
CS + AI/ML
CS + Cybersecurity
CS + Cloud/DevOps
CS + Data Engineering
CS + Robotics
CS + Product/Business
You don't need to choose the specialization immediately. Use your first year or two of college to explore.
If I were starting CS today, my priority would be:
Strong CS fundamentals → Build real projects → Learn AI-assisted development → Get internships/real experience → Specialize based on what I enjoy and where I see opportunities.
And one final piece of advice: don't choose Computer Science because you think it guarantees a high-paying job. Choose it if you genuinely enjoy solving problems, learning technical concepts, and building things. The field changes constantly, so curiosity and the ability to keep learning are arguably your most important long-term skills.
Jenny Shorter
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Jenny’s Answer
Hi Kaden,
Great question. I find the working from home a big reason I switched my major to CS as well. Working from home depends on your role and company, but is flexible and takes self-discipline — you set your own schedule, communicate a lot more in writing than in person, and have to make an effort not to feel isolated. As for AI, it's changing how code gets written, but someone still has to define the problem, judge whether the AI's output is right, and design the bigger system — so the field isn't disappearing, it's shifting toward judgment and problem-solving over memorizing syntax. Early on, focus on fundamentals (how programs and computers actually work, one language learned deeply, Git) and build real projects — that teaches more than any tutorial.
For college: a CS degree is way broader than just software development — you could end up in data, security, product, research, and more — so you don't need to lock in "developer" now. Software dev is a solid, in-demand choice, but pairing it with something you're genuinely into (games, health, finance, whatever) tends to make you both more hireable and more interested in the work.
Try not to overthink it — pick a good program, stay flexible, and do your best to always be building cool stuff that makes your life easier.
Great question. I find the working from home a big reason I switched my major to CS as well. Working from home depends on your role and company, but is flexible and takes self-discipline — you set your own schedule, communicate a lot more in writing than in person, and have to make an effort not to feel isolated. As for AI, it's changing how code gets written, but someone still has to define the problem, judge whether the AI's output is right, and design the bigger system — so the field isn't disappearing, it's shifting toward judgment and problem-solving over memorizing syntax. Early on, focus on fundamentals (how programs and computers actually work, one language learned deeply, Git) and build real projects — that teaches more than any tutorial.
For college: a CS degree is way broader than just software development — you could end up in data, security, product, research, and more — so you don't need to lock in "developer" now. Software dev is a solid, in-demand choice, but pairing it with something you're genuinely into (games, health, finance, whatever) tends to make you both more hireable and more interested in the work.
Try not to overthink it — pick a good program, stay flexible, and do your best to always be building cool stuff that makes your life easier.
Jean Noel Sanchez
Developer/Data Analyst
94
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jean Noel’s Answer
Hi - Working from home as a computer science major is common, but it comes with distinct daily dynamics, foundational skills to master, and strategic steps to take as you enter the field.
1. What It’s Like Working from Home (WFH)
• The Reality: A typical remote day consists of daily standup meetings (15–30 minutes via Slack, Zoom, or Teams), quiet blocks of deep coding or debugging, code reviews, and system architecture planning.
• The Pros:
o Flexibility & Zero Commute: Save hours each day on transit and manage your own schedule, breaks, and environment.
o Global Opportunities: Apply for software jobs at companies headquartered across the world without relocating.
• The Challenges:
o Isolation: Lacking accidental desk chats requires deliberate effort to maintain social connections with teammates.
o Blurred Boundaries: Without physical separation between work and home, it is easy to overwork or struggle to log off at the end of the day.
2. Best Skills to Learn Early in Computer Science
Focusing on underlying principles rather than just syntax will make adapting to new technologies straightforward.
1. Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA): Understanding arrays, trees, graphs, and sorting algorithms is core to problem-solving, writing efficient code, and passing technical job interviews.
2. Version Control (Git & GitHub): Essential for saving code changes, working in teams, and managing open-source contributions.
3. Problem Decomposition: Breaking down a huge, complex problem into tiny, manageable logical steps.
4. Command Line & Operating Systems: Comfort with Linux/Unix terminals, shell scripting, and basic memory management makes you significantly more effective.
5. System Architecture & Reading Code: Learning how APIs, databases, and servers communicate—and getting comfortable reading other people’s code—is essential.
3. Where CS is Heading & Will AI Overrun It?
• Will AI replace software engineers? No, but it is changing the job. AI tools generate syntax, draft boilerplates, and catch basic bugs quickly. However, software engineering isn't just typing code—it's understanding human needs, designing system architectures, ensuring security, and making high-level trade-offs.
• The Shift: Developers operate more like system architects or directors. Instead of writing every line manually, you will direct AI assistants, review their output for bugs, and integrate components together safely.
• Future CS Hotspots:
o Cybersecurity & Privacy: AI models introduce new attack vectors, making security experts increasingly vital.
o AI Engineering & Infrastructure: Building, fine-tuning, maintaining, and deploying large-scale AI models.
o Cloud & Distributed Computing: Managing data across worldwide server networks.
4. Tips for Your College Journey & Specialization Advice
Should you focus on something other than Software Development?
Start with Software Development first. It forms the foundation for almost every sub-field. Once you cover the basics, consider exploring:
• Cybersecurity (High demand, highly resilient to automation)
• Data Engineering / AI Engineering (Managing pipelines and training models)
• DevOps / Cloud Architecture (Building the infrastructure that runs applications)
College Survival Tips:
• Build Projects, Don't Just Take Classes: Class assignments show you understand concepts, but personal side projects or open-source contributions demonstrate real-world initiative to hiring managers.
• Prioritize Internships Early: Apply for summer internships starting in your freshman/sophomore year. Practical work experience is the single biggest factor in landing a job after graduation.
• Master Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and explaining complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders will set you apart faster than pure technical skills alone.
1. What It’s Like Working from Home (WFH)
• The Reality: A typical remote day consists of daily standup meetings (15–30 minutes via Slack, Zoom, or Teams), quiet blocks of deep coding or debugging, code reviews, and system architecture planning.
• The Pros:
o Flexibility & Zero Commute: Save hours each day on transit and manage your own schedule, breaks, and environment.
o Global Opportunities: Apply for software jobs at companies headquartered across the world without relocating.
• The Challenges:
o Isolation: Lacking accidental desk chats requires deliberate effort to maintain social connections with teammates.
o Blurred Boundaries: Without physical separation between work and home, it is easy to overwork or struggle to log off at the end of the day.
2. Best Skills to Learn Early in Computer Science
Focusing on underlying principles rather than just syntax will make adapting to new technologies straightforward.
1. Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA): Understanding arrays, trees, graphs, and sorting algorithms is core to problem-solving, writing efficient code, and passing technical job interviews.
2. Version Control (Git & GitHub): Essential for saving code changes, working in teams, and managing open-source contributions.
3. Problem Decomposition: Breaking down a huge, complex problem into tiny, manageable logical steps.
4. Command Line & Operating Systems: Comfort with Linux/Unix terminals, shell scripting, and basic memory management makes you significantly more effective.
5. System Architecture & Reading Code: Learning how APIs, databases, and servers communicate—and getting comfortable reading other people’s code—is essential.
3. Where CS is Heading & Will AI Overrun It?
• Will AI replace software engineers? No, but it is changing the job. AI tools generate syntax, draft boilerplates, and catch basic bugs quickly. However, software engineering isn't just typing code—it's understanding human needs, designing system architectures, ensuring security, and making high-level trade-offs.
• The Shift: Developers operate more like system architects or directors. Instead of writing every line manually, you will direct AI assistants, review their output for bugs, and integrate components together safely.
• Future CS Hotspots:
o Cybersecurity & Privacy: AI models introduce new attack vectors, making security experts increasingly vital.
o AI Engineering & Infrastructure: Building, fine-tuning, maintaining, and deploying large-scale AI models.
o Cloud & Distributed Computing: Managing data across worldwide server networks.
4. Tips for Your College Journey & Specialization Advice
Should you focus on something other than Software Development?
Start with Software Development first. It forms the foundation for almost every sub-field. Once you cover the basics, consider exploring:
• Cybersecurity (High demand, highly resilient to automation)
• Data Engineering / AI Engineering (Managing pipelines and training models)
• DevOps / Cloud Architecture (Building the infrastructure that runs applications)
College Survival Tips:
• Build Projects, Don't Just Take Classes: Class assignments show you understand concepts, but personal side projects or open-source contributions demonstrate real-world initiative to hiring managers.
• Prioritize Internships Early: Apply for summer internships starting in your freshman/sophomore year. Practical work experience is the single biggest factor in landing a job after graduation.
• Master Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and explaining complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders will set you apart faster than pure technical skills alone.
Krishnam Rastogi
Software Engineer
8
Answers
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Krishnam’s Answer
If you’re interested in majoring in computer science and going into software development, I’d definitely encourage you to explore it. It’s a field where you can build things, solve problems, and continue learning throughout your career.
Working from home as a software developer can be great, but it isn’t necessarily as easy or relaxed as people sometimes imagine. A lot of the work involves sitting at a computer for long periods, communicating with teammates through meetings and chat, and being able to stay productive without someone physically supervising you. One thing I’ve learned is that communication and self-discipline are just as important as technical skills when working remotely.
Early in college, I would focus less on trying to learn every programming language and more on understanding the fundamentals. Learn how programming works, practice problem-solving, understand data structures and algorithms, learn Git, and get comfortable reading and debugging other people's code. Pick one language - Python, Java, JavaScript/TypeScript, C++, etc.—and become reasonably comfortable with it before constantly jumping between languages.
I’d also strongly recommend building projects outside of your coursework. They don't have to be impressive. Build a small website, automate something that annoys you, create a simple game, build an app, or work on an open-source project. Projects teach you things that classes often don't: how to deal with bugs, unfamiliar documentation, APIs, databases, deployment, and requirements that aren't perfectly defined.
As for AI, I don't think software development is going away, but I do think the job is changing significantly. AI tools are already capable of generating code, explaining errors, writing tests, and helping developers work faster. That means simply being someone who can write basic code may become less valuable over time. The ability to understand a problem, design a solution, evaluate AI-generated code, debug it, and communicate with people will become increasingly important.
Because of that, I wouldn't recommend avoiding software development because of AI. Instead, learn how to use AI as a tool while making sure you understand the fundamentals underneath it. Don't just copy and paste AI-generated code, ask yourself why it works, what could go wrong, and how you would fix it if the AI wasn't available.
Also, don't feel like you have to decide your exact specialization before starting college. Computer science can lead to software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud/infrastructure, data engineering, AI/ML, mobile development, developer tools, databases, research, and many other areas. Take different classes and try different projects during college.
You may discover an area you enjoy much more than you expected.
Finally, one of the best things you can do early is learn how to learn. Technology will change constantly. The specific programming language or framework you're learning today may not be the one you're using five years from now. If you develop strong fundamentals, curiosity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn new technologies quickly, you'll be in a much better position to adapt.
Good luck with college! If you genuinely enjoy solving problems and building things, computer science can be a very rewarding field.
Working from home as a software developer can be great, but it isn’t necessarily as easy or relaxed as people sometimes imagine. A lot of the work involves sitting at a computer for long periods, communicating with teammates through meetings and chat, and being able to stay productive without someone physically supervising you. One thing I’ve learned is that communication and self-discipline are just as important as technical skills when working remotely.
Early in college, I would focus less on trying to learn every programming language and more on understanding the fundamentals. Learn how programming works, practice problem-solving, understand data structures and algorithms, learn Git, and get comfortable reading and debugging other people's code. Pick one language - Python, Java, JavaScript/TypeScript, C++, etc.—and become reasonably comfortable with it before constantly jumping between languages.
I’d also strongly recommend building projects outside of your coursework. They don't have to be impressive. Build a small website, automate something that annoys you, create a simple game, build an app, or work on an open-source project. Projects teach you things that classes often don't: how to deal with bugs, unfamiliar documentation, APIs, databases, deployment, and requirements that aren't perfectly defined.
As for AI, I don't think software development is going away, but I do think the job is changing significantly. AI tools are already capable of generating code, explaining errors, writing tests, and helping developers work faster. That means simply being someone who can write basic code may become less valuable over time. The ability to understand a problem, design a solution, evaluate AI-generated code, debug it, and communicate with people will become increasingly important.
Because of that, I wouldn't recommend avoiding software development because of AI. Instead, learn how to use AI as a tool while making sure you understand the fundamentals underneath it. Don't just copy and paste AI-generated code, ask yourself why it works, what could go wrong, and how you would fix it if the AI wasn't available.
Also, don't feel like you have to decide your exact specialization before starting college. Computer science can lead to software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud/infrastructure, data engineering, AI/ML, mobile development, developer tools, databases, research, and many other areas. Take different classes and try different projects during college.
You may discover an area you enjoy much more than you expected.
Finally, one of the best things you can do early is learn how to learn. Technology will change constantly. The specific programming language or framework you're learning today may not be the one you're using five years from now. If you develop strong fundamentals, curiosity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn new technologies quickly, you'll be in a much better position to adapt.
Good luck with college! If you genuinely enjoy solving problems and building things, computer science can be a very rewarding field.
Denzil Dsouza
2
Answers
Mangaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Denzil’s Answer
1. What Is It Like to Work from Home in Tech?
Working from home as a software engineer or computer science graduate is a lot like having the ultimate flexible study hall, but with real projects:
The Good Stuff:
Freedom & Comfort: No traffic or long commutes. You can set up your desk exactly how you like, wear comfortable clothes, and work during the hours when your brain is sharpest.
Deep Focus: When you're solving a tough coding puzzle, being in a quiet room with headphones helps you get into "the zone" without classroom or office distractions.
The Challenges to Keep in Mind:
Self-Discipline: Because no teacher or manager is standing over your shoulder, you need strong time management to stay on track.
Communication is Everything: You’ll spend a lot of time chatting over Slack/Discord-style apps, writing clear messages, and jumping on video calls to plan projects with your team.
Separating Work and Free Time: It can be easy to never truly "leave" work when your desk is right next to your bed. Setting boundaries is key!
2. What Are the Best Skills to Learn Early?
You don't need to learn ten different programming languages right away. Instead, focus on these fundamentals:
Core Logic & Problem-Solving:
Pick one language (like Python, Java, or JavaScript/TypeScript) and learn how loops, functions, and logic work.
Learn basic Data Structures (lists, dictionaries/maps, arrays) — they are the building blocks of every game, app, or website.
Basic Developer Tools:
Git & GitHub: Think of this as the "Google Docs version history" for code. Learning how to save versions of your code and share it is a huge head start for college.
The Command Line (Terminal): Getting comfortable navigating folders and running programs using text commands instead of just clicking with a mouse.
How to Google & Debug:
Professional programmers get error messages all day long! Learning how to read error messages, search for solutions, and test small changes step-by-step is an actual superpower.
3. Where Will Computer Science Be in a Few Years? Will AI Take Over?
Short answer: No, AI will not replace computer science—it will be your assistant, not your replacement.
AI is a Power Tool:
Think of AI coding tools (like ChatGPT or GitHub Copilot) like a supercharged calculator. Calculators didn’t eliminate mathematicians or engineers; they just freed them from doing long division by hand so they could solve bigger problems.
AI is great at writing quick snippets of code, but it doesn't understand why a business needs an app, how real humans will use it, or how to design a complex system from start to finish.
Why Human Programmers Matter:
Computer science isn't just typing lines of code; it's problem-solving, creativity, and logic.
Engineers who understand the fundamentals will be needed to guide AI, fix AI mistakes, keep systems secure, and build the next generation of technology.
4. Tips for Starting Your CS Major in College
Build Small Projects for Fun:
Don’t just do homework. Build a simple text-based game, a Discord bot, or a website for a club. Personal projects teach you more than tests do, and they look great on a resume.
Don’t Stress If Others Started Earlier:
In your freshman classes, some students might have been coding since middle school. Don’t let that intimidate you—intro college courses start from scratch, and consistent practice will help you catch up quickly.
Collaborate and Make Friends:
Computer science is a team sport. Study groups, hackathons (weekend coding events), and campus coding clubs are great ways to learn faster and make friends.
Target Internships Early:
Starting in your sophomore or junior year, look for summer internships. Real-world experience is what helps you land a job after graduation.
5. Should You Focus on Something Other Than Software Development?
Software development is the best starting point because it teaches you how software is made. But as you progress, exploring related fields can make you stand out:
Cybersecurity: Protecting apps and data from hackers.
Cloud Computing & DevOps: Learning how apps are hosted on servers (like Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud) so millions of users can access them simultaneously.
Data & Machine Learning: Understanding how to train computers to recognize patterns in data.
UI/UX Design & Product Management: Focusing on how apps look and feel for everyday users, or leading teams on what features to build.
The takeaway: A Computer Science degree gives you a versatile toolkit. If you enjoy building things and solving puzzles, you're on a great path!
Working from home as a software engineer or computer science graduate is a lot like having the ultimate flexible study hall, but with real projects:
The Good Stuff:
Freedom & Comfort: No traffic or long commutes. You can set up your desk exactly how you like, wear comfortable clothes, and work during the hours when your brain is sharpest.
Deep Focus: When you're solving a tough coding puzzle, being in a quiet room with headphones helps you get into "the zone" without classroom or office distractions.
The Challenges to Keep in Mind:
Self-Discipline: Because no teacher or manager is standing over your shoulder, you need strong time management to stay on track.
Communication is Everything: You’ll spend a lot of time chatting over Slack/Discord-style apps, writing clear messages, and jumping on video calls to plan projects with your team.
Separating Work and Free Time: It can be easy to never truly "leave" work when your desk is right next to your bed. Setting boundaries is key!
2. What Are the Best Skills to Learn Early?
You don't need to learn ten different programming languages right away. Instead, focus on these fundamentals:
Core Logic & Problem-Solving:
Pick one language (like Python, Java, or JavaScript/TypeScript) and learn how loops, functions, and logic work.
Learn basic Data Structures (lists, dictionaries/maps, arrays) — they are the building blocks of every game, app, or website.
Basic Developer Tools:
Git & GitHub: Think of this as the "Google Docs version history" for code. Learning how to save versions of your code and share it is a huge head start for college.
The Command Line (Terminal): Getting comfortable navigating folders and running programs using text commands instead of just clicking with a mouse.
How to Google & Debug:
Professional programmers get error messages all day long! Learning how to read error messages, search for solutions, and test small changes step-by-step is an actual superpower.
3. Where Will Computer Science Be in a Few Years? Will AI Take Over?
Short answer: No, AI will not replace computer science—it will be your assistant, not your replacement.
AI is a Power Tool:
Think of AI coding tools (like ChatGPT or GitHub Copilot) like a supercharged calculator. Calculators didn’t eliminate mathematicians or engineers; they just freed them from doing long division by hand so they could solve bigger problems.
AI is great at writing quick snippets of code, but it doesn't understand why a business needs an app, how real humans will use it, or how to design a complex system from start to finish.
Why Human Programmers Matter:
Computer science isn't just typing lines of code; it's problem-solving, creativity, and logic.
Engineers who understand the fundamentals will be needed to guide AI, fix AI mistakes, keep systems secure, and build the next generation of technology.
4. Tips for Starting Your CS Major in College
Build Small Projects for Fun:
Don’t just do homework. Build a simple text-based game, a Discord bot, or a website for a club. Personal projects teach you more than tests do, and they look great on a resume.
Don’t Stress If Others Started Earlier:
In your freshman classes, some students might have been coding since middle school. Don’t let that intimidate you—intro college courses start from scratch, and consistent practice will help you catch up quickly.
Collaborate and Make Friends:
Computer science is a team sport. Study groups, hackathons (weekend coding events), and campus coding clubs are great ways to learn faster and make friends.
Target Internships Early:
Starting in your sophomore or junior year, look for summer internships. Real-world experience is what helps you land a job after graduation.
5. Should You Focus on Something Other Than Software Development?
Software development is the best starting point because it teaches you how software is made. But as you progress, exploring related fields can make you stand out:
Cybersecurity: Protecting apps and data from hackers.
Cloud Computing & DevOps: Learning how apps are hosted on servers (like Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud) so millions of users can access them simultaneously.
Data & Machine Learning: Understanding how to train computers to recognize patterns in data.
UI/UX Design & Product Management: Focusing on how apps look and feel for everyday users, or leading teams on what features to build.
The takeaway: A Computer Science degree gives you a versatile toolkit. If you enjoy building things and solving puzzles, you're on a great path!
Manvi Sharma
3
Answers
Chandigarh, India
Updated
Manvi’s Answer
Hello,
I hope you're having a great day! Choosing to major in Computer Science with a focus on software development is a smart and impactful decision. As the tech world changes quickly, it's important to focus on how you approach your studies, not just on getting the degree.
Make sure to concentrate on the core fundamentals of computer science rather than just the latest tech trends. These basics will serve you well in the long run.
Getting certifications can also boost your skills and make your resume shine. Consider certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate or Azure Fundamentals.
Combining your degree with one cloud certification and a couple of meaningful internships will really help you stand out to employers. You're on a great path!
I hope you're having a great day! Choosing to major in Computer Science with a focus on software development is a smart and impactful decision. As the tech world changes quickly, it's important to focus on how you approach your studies, not just on getting the degree.
Make sure to concentrate on the core fundamentals of computer science rather than just the latest tech trends. These basics will serve you well in the long run.
Getting certifications can also boost your skills and make your resume shine. Consider certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate or Azure Fundamentals.
Combining your degree with one cloud certification and a couple of meaningful internships will really help you stand out to employers. You're on a great path!
Climacus Wilson
Cloud engineer
5
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Climacus’s Answer
Choosing a Computer Science career opens up huge opportunities for Work From Home (WFH) and hybrid roles across global teams. It offers fantastic flexibility and deep focus, though it requires proactive communication and good self-discipline.
Must-Learn Early Skills:
Core data structures & algorithms
Git and version control
Debugging and reading other developers' code
Clear technical writing and communication
Will AI Overrun CS? No. AI automates boilerplate code, but companies still need engineers to architect systems, solve business problems, and debug complex issues. Strong CS fundamentals are essential to verify and guide AI output.
Top Tips for College:
Build and deploy real personal projects beyond coursework.
Target internships early to gain production experience.
Focus on core concepts rather than memorizing a single programming language.
High-Growth Adjacent Areas: Cloud/DevOps, AI/ML Engineering, and Cybersecurity.
Must-Learn Early Skills:
Core data structures & algorithms
Git and version control
Debugging and reading other developers' code
Clear technical writing and communication
Will AI Overrun CS? No. AI automates boilerplate code, but companies still need engineers to architect systems, solve business problems, and debug complex issues. Strong CS fundamentals are essential to verify and guide AI output.
Top Tips for College:
Build and deploy real personal projects beyond coursework.
Target internships early to gain production experience.
Focus on core concepts rather than memorizing a single programming language.
High-Growth Adjacent Areas: Cloud/DevOps, AI/ML Engineering, and Cybersecurity.
Secheikhen Otgonjargal
Software engineer
4
Answers
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Updated
Secheikhen’s Answer
Working from home as a software developer can be great, you get flexibility and independence, but you also need good communication and time-management skills.
If you’re planning to major in CS, learn programming fundamentals, data structures, Git/GitHub, databases, APIs, and debugging early. Most importantly, build your own projects instead of only following tutorials.
I wouldn’t avoid software development because of AI. AI will change the field, but it won’t make CS useless. Even the biggest AI companies don’t have complete control over AI agents, and if one company tried to control all AI, competition from other companies, researchers, and open-source developers would make that unrealistic, and honestly, they would be stupid to eliminate the entire ecosystem they’re competing in.
I’d learn software development while also exploring AI/ML, cybersecurity, cloud, robotics, or systems. Strong CS fundamentals will give you flexibility as the industry changes.
If you’re planning to major in CS, learn programming fundamentals, data structures, Git/GitHub, databases, APIs, and debugging early. Most importantly, build your own projects instead of only following tutorials.
I wouldn’t avoid software development because of AI. AI will change the field, but it won’t make CS useless. Even the biggest AI companies don’t have complete control over AI agents, and if one company tried to control all AI, competition from other companies, researchers, and open-source developers would make that unrealistic, and honestly, they would be stupid to eliminate the entire ecosystem they’re competing in.
I’d learn software development while also exploring AI/ML, cybersecurity, cloud, robotics, or systems. Strong CS fundamentals will give you flexibility as the industry changes.
Teklemuz Tesfay
Software Engineer and Career Mentor
712
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz’s Answer
Begin by building a solid base with Python or any other language you like. Free resources like CS50 Python and CS50x can guide you through programming, algorithms, and basic Computer Science concepts. Next, dive into databases, networking, operating systems, Git, Linux, and math. As you learn, create projects such as a website, budgeting tool, or simple AI app. Gradually, work up to projects like an AI study assistant or a cybersecurity tool. Use free resources like CS50 SQL, Linux Foundation courses, and CS50 Cybersecurity to grow your skills. Gain practical experience through internships, volunteering, hackathons, and open-source projects to enhance your GitHub portfolio.
Embrace AI and aim to master it. See it as a chance to work faster, explore ideas, and tackle complex problems. Use AI for coding, research, testing, and debugging, but always check its results. Combining strong Computer Science knowledge with AI skills can give you a real edge. Explore fields like software development, AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data engineering. Choose your specialty based on what you love, what you excel at, and your career goals. For remote work, focus on clear communication, time management, documentation, and solving problems independently. You don't need expensive courses to begin; use free resources, keep building, and continue moving forward.
Embrace AI and aim to master it. See it as a chance to work faster, explore ideas, and tackle complex problems. Use AI for coding, research, testing, and debugging, but always check its results. Combining strong Computer Science knowledge with AI skills can give you a real edge. Explore fields like software development, AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data engineering. Choose your specialty based on what you love, what you excel at, and your career goals. For remote work, focus on clear communication, time management, documentation, and solving problems independently. You don't need expensive courses to begin; use free resources, keep building, and continue moving forward.
Tayyaba Javed
Web development intern
6
Answers
Taxila, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Tayyaba’s Answer
Honestly, I wouldn’t let the AI hype scare you away from CS.
Working from home: Software development can be very remote-friendly. You’ll spend a lot of time coding, debugging, reading documentation, attending meetings, and communicating with your team. The hard part is that remote work requires you to be independent and communicate well, not just code.
Skills to learn early:
Programming fundamentals and problem-solving
Data structures and algorithms
Git/GitHub
Databases and SQL
APIs and basic web development
Debugging and testing
Communication and teamwork
How to use AI tools **without depending on them blindly**
Where CS is going: AI will probably automate a lot of repetitive coding. That doesn't mean software developers disappear. It means the job will shift toward designing systems, understanding requirements, reviewing AI-generated code, debugging, testing, security, and solving problems that aren't straightforward.
I’d still major in Computer Science if you genuinely enjoy technology. You also don't have to decide your exact career path in college. Explore software development, cybersecurity, data/AI, cloud, QA/testing, databases, and even project/product management.
The biggest mistake would be thinking “I need to compete with AI by becoming the fastest person at typing code.” Instead, become someone who understands why something should be built, how it should work, and how to make sure it actually works. That knowledge will remain valuable even as the tools change.
Working from home: Software development can be very remote-friendly. You’ll spend a lot of time coding, debugging, reading documentation, attending meetings, and communicating with your team. The hard part is that remote work requires you to be independent and communicate well, not just code.
Skills to learn early:
Programming fundamentals and problem-solving
Data structures and algorithms
Git/GitHub
Databases and SQL
APIs and basic web development
Debugging and testing
Communication and teamwork
How to use AI tools **without depending on them blindly**
Where CS is going: AI will probably automate a lot of repetitive coding. That doesn't mean software developers disappear. It means the job will shift toward designing systems, understanding requirements, reviewing AI-generated code, debugging, testing, security, and solving problems that aren't straightforward.
I’d still major in Computer Science if you genuinely enjoy technology. You also don't have to decide your exact career path in college. Explore software development, cybersecurity, data/AI, cloud, QA/testing, databases, and even project/product management.
The biggest mistake would be thinking “I need to compete with AI by becoming the fastest person at typing code.” Instead, become someone who understands why something should be built, how it should work, and how to make sure it actually works. That knowledge will remain valuable even as the tools change.
Billy Vardharajan
Manager
28
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Billy’s Answer
Computer science is a wonderful field with almost unlimited opportunities to make a positive impact. You can use creativity and technology to solve difficult problems and improve people’s lives.
The field also supports flexible and remote work. With modern collaboration tools, teams around the world can work together and make continuous progress. However, it is important to manage your workload and build healthy habits to avoid burnout.
Early in your career, focus on understanding the complete software-development process. Learn how a problem becomes a working solution through programming languages, testing, compilers, version control, operating systems, runtime environments, and debugging tools.
Computer science requires lifelong learning, so develop a habit of regularly updating your skills.
Artificial intelligence will increasingly influence software development, IT support, and many other areas. Learn how to use AI tools and software development kits effectively but always remain actively involved. AI can make mistakes, so human judgment, testing, and oversight will remain essential.
Future computer scientists who combine strong technical fundamentals with responsible AI skills will be able to solve problems faster and have an even greater impact.
The field also supports flexible and remote work. With modern collaboration tools, teams around the world can work together and make continuous progress. However, it is important to manage your workload and build healthy habits to avoid burnout.
Early in your career, focus on understanding the complete software-development process. Learn how a problem becomes a working solution through programming languages, testing, compilers, version control, operating systems, runtime environments, and debugging tools.
Computer science requires lifelong learning, so develop a habit of regularly updating your skills.
Artificial intelligence will increasingly influence software development, IT support, and many other areas. Learn how to use AI tools and software development kits effectively but always remain actively involved. AI can make mistakes, so human judgment, testing, and oversight will remain essential.
Future computer scientists who combine strong technical fundamentals with responsible AI skills will be able to solve problems faster and have an even greater impact.
Komal Chauhan
It
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Komal’s Answer
Working from home provides tremendous flexibility and global opportunity, but demands strong self-discipline, proactive communication, and structured boundaries to avoid burnout.
• Learn core fundamentals early, focusing heavily on data structures, algorithms, version control with Git, and building real-world side projects over rote memorization.
• AI will augment rather than replace programmers, shifting the industry toward higher-level system architecture, prompt/model integration, and complex problem-solving rather than boilerplate coding.
• Prioritize internships and practical portfolios throughout college, because hands-on collaborative experience, open-source work, and networking carry far more weight than grades alone.
• Broaden your focus beyond standard development by exploring complementary specializations such as cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, data engineering, and distributed systems.
• Learn core fundamentals early, focusing heavily on data structures, algorithms, version control with Git, and building real-world side projects over rote memorization.
• AI will augment rather than replace programmers, shifting the industry toward higher-level system architecture, prompt/model integration, and complex problem-solving rather than boilerplate coding.
• Prioritize internships and practical portfolios throughout college, because hands-on collaborative experience, open-source work, and networking carry far more weight than grades alone.
• Broaden your focus beyond standard development by exploring complementary specializations such as cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, data engineering, and distributed systems.
Amanda Marshall
Product Management
4
Answers
Carol Stream, Illinois
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Wow, great question.
I have a Computer Science degree but I work on the people side of IT, requirements. When I graduated from college the coding language I learned was already outdated and I just felt that I could not keep up with the speed of that type of change. As a result, I left the development world but I loved bridging the gap between users and IT and that is where I found my home in product.
In my role working from home is easy. I talk to people, on camera, everyday. I find it fun an enjoyable to solve people's problems through technology.
For AI, I find it as an accelerator. Businesses are always looking for more with less. AI has helped me by making some tasks much faster, occasionally giving me a springboard to starting a task, helps my requirements be less ambiguous and help me with presentations.
IT is still a great place to be. It will always be needed.
I have a Computer Science degree but I work on the people side of IT, requirements. When I graduated from college the coding language I learned was already outdated and I just felt that I could not keep up with the speed of that type of change. As a result, I left the development world but I loved bridging the gap between users and IT and that is where I found my home in product.
In my role working from home is easy. I talk to people, on camera, everyday. I find it fun an enjoyable to solve people's problems through technology.
For AI, I find it as an accelerator. Businesses are always looking for more with less. AI has helped me by making some tasks much faster, occasionally giving me a springboard to starting a task, helps my requirements be less ambiguous and help me with presentations.
IT is still a great place to be. It will always be needed.
Jezlea Ortega
Tech Architecture
86
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jezlea’s Answer
Working from home as a computer science professional is honestly one of the biggest perks of the field. The work is almost entirely digital, so as long as you have a laptop and a solid internet connection, you can be productive from virtually anywhere. That said, it requires a lot of self-discipline. Without the structure of an office, it's easy to blur the line between work time and personal time. Building strong routines early will make a huge difference in your productivity and your mental health.
In terms of skills to learn early, focus on getting comfortable with at least one programming language really well before jumping around. Python is a great starting point because it's versatile, beginner friendly, and used across almost every area of the field. Beyond coding, learn how to problem solve logically, get familiar with data structures and algorithms early, and start understanding how to read and write clean, organized code. Communication skills matter more than people expect too. Being able to explain technical concepts clearly will set you apart throughout your entire career.
As for where computer science is heading, AI is absolutely reshaping the field, but it is not replacing it. If anything, it is creating more demand for people who understand how these systems are built, trained, and maintained. The engineers, developers, and researchers behind AI are all computer science professionals. The field is evolving, not disappearing and those who adapt and learn alongside these tools will have an enormous advantage.
For your major, software development is a solid foundation and a smart place to start. But keep an open mind as you go through your courses because many students discover unexpected passions in areas like cybersecurity, machine learning, data science, or UX engineering. You don't have to have it all figured out now just stay curious, build things outside of class, work on personal projects, and take internships seriously when the time comes. Real world experience will teach you things no course ever could, and it will help you figure out exactly where you want to take your degree.
In terms of skills to learn early, focus on getting comfortable with at least one programming language really well before jumping around. Python is a great starting point because it's versatile, beginner friendly, and used across almost every area of the field. Beyond coding, learn how to problem solve logically, get familiar with data structures and algorithms early, and start understanding how to read and write clean, organized code. Communication skills matter more than people expect too. Being able to explain technical concepts clearly will set you apart throughout your entire career.
As for where computer science is heading, AI is absolutely reshaping the field, but it is not replacing it. If anything, it is creating more demand for people who understand how these systems are built, trained, and maintained. The engineers, developers, and researchers behind AI are all computer science professionals. The field is evolving, not disappearing and those who adapt and learn alongside these tools will have an enormous advantage.
For your major, software development is a solid foundation and a smart place to start. But keep an open mind as you go through your courses because many students discover unexpected passions in areas like cybersecurity, machine learning, data science, or UX engineering. You don't have to have it all figured out now just stay curious, build things outside of class, work on personal projects, and take internships seriously when the time comes. Real world experience will teach you things no course ever could, and it will help you figure out exactly where you want to take your degree.
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