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How do I become a Software engineer??
Interested in becoming one, a high school student.
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5 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Andy!
Just to share a bit about myself, I've been a self-taught programmer since 1972 and have mastered 10 computer languages. Additionally, I've spent the last 30 years creating nutrition education platforms, thanks to my background as a dietitian-nutritionist!
Now, if you're considering a career as a software engineer, that's a fantastic choice, Andy! It's a thrilling and fulfilling path. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get there:
1. Strengthen your foundation in math and computer science:
As a software engineer, you'll need strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, both of which are rooted in math and computer science. So, try to take as many related courses as you can while you're still in high school, and keep honing your problem-solving abilities.
2. Master programming languages:
Aim to learn at least one programming language, like Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript. There are plenty of free online resources such as Codecademy, Coursera, and Udemy that can help you get started. Remember, practice makes perfect, so code as often as you can.
3. Dive into software development tools and technologies:
Get comfortable with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems (VCSs), and agile project management tools. These will be invaluable in managing your code and collaborating with other developers.
4. Join coding competitions and hackathons:
These events are a great way to sharpen your problem-solving skills and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Look for these opportunities online or through local tech communities.
5. Network with industry professionals:
Attend tech conferences, meetups, and networking events to connect with experienced software engineers. These interactions can provide valuable insights and potentially open doors to future job opportunities.
6. Gain experience through internships or co-op programs:
These programs provide hands-on experience in the field of software engineering, helping you gain practical knowledge, expand your professional network, and enhance your resume.
7. Pursue a degree in computer science or a related field:
Although not mandatory, having a degree can boost your chances of landing a software engineering job. Look for accredited programs that match your interests and career aspirations.
Here are three authoritative books to guide you further:
1. “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell and Jackie Bavaro
2. “The Computer Science Student’s Guide to Careers in Software Development” by Robert D. Flick
3. “Software Engineering: A Practitioner’s Approach” by Roger S. Pressman and Bruce B. G. Rao
Remember, becoming a software engineer requires patience, commitment, and a lot of hard work. Stay determined, keep learning, and focus on building a solid foundation in math and computer science. You're embarking on an exciting journey, Andy. Best of luck!
May you be abundantly blessed!
James.
Just to share a bit about myself, I've been a self-taught programmer since 1972 and have mastered 10 computer languages. Additionally, I've spent the last 30 years creating nutrition education platforms, thanks to my background as a dietitian-nutritionist!
Now, if you're considering a career as a software engineer, that's a fantastic choice, Andy! It's a thrilling and fulfilling path. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get there:
1. Strengthen your foundation in math and computer science:
As a software engineer, you'll need strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, both of which are rooted in math and computer science. So, try to take as many related courses as you can while you're still in high school, and keep honing your problem-solving abilities.
2. Master programming languages:
Aim to learn at least one programming language, like Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript. There are plenty of free online resources such as Codecademy, Coursera, and Udemy that can help you get started. Remember, practice makes perfect, so code as often as you can.
3. Dive into software development tools and technologies:
Get comfortable with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems (VCSs), and agile project management tools. These will be invaluable in managing your code and collaborating with other developers.
4. Join coding competitions and hackathons:
These events are a great way to sharpen your problem-solving skills and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Look for these opportunities online or through local tech communities.
5. Network with industry professionals:
Attend tech conferences, meetups, and networking events to connect with experienced software engineers. These interactions can provide valuable insights and potentially open doors to future job opportunities.
6. Gain experience through internships or co-op programs:
These programs provide hands-on experience in the field of software engineering, helping you gain practical knowledge, expand your professional network, and enhance your resume.
7. Pursue a degree in computer science or a related field:
Although not mandatory, having a degree can boost your chances of landing a software engineering job. Look for accredited programs that match your interests and career aspirations.
Here are three authoritative books to guide you further:
1. “Cracking the Coding Interview” by Gayle Laakmann McDowell and Jackie Bavaro
2. “The Computer Science Student’s Guide to Careers in Software Development” by Robert D. Flick
3. “Software Engineering: A Practitioner’s Approach” by Roger S. Pressman and Bruce B. G. Rao
Remember, becoming a software engineer requires patience, commitment, and a lot of hard work. Stay determined, keep learning, and focus on building a solid foundation in math and computer science. You're embarking on an exciting journey, Andy. Best of luck!
May you be abundantly blessed!
James.
Updated
Mickael’s Answer
Hi Andy
To become a software Engineer, in general you need to attend college/university that propose either:
- a Bachelor Degree in Computer Science
- a Bachelor Degree in Computer Engineering
(note that there are somewhat different in today's literature thought quite close).
Anything above Bachelor Degree like Master Degree or Ph.D also works. Bachelor is the minimum.
For the school curriculum, it really depends if you want coding (computer science) or management (like IT) or hardware or in between.
Coding usually requires these basis:
- algorithm
- data structure
- one programming language
- possibly some query language
Hardware usually requires at least:
- computer architecture
- other hardware training as you see fit like FPGA, DSP ...
- Operating System introduction
For the other, really depends what you are targeting in the computer field... it is so vast.
During high school, you need to take some Maths like calculus, algebra. If you are interested in hardware as well, electricity/electronic will be a plus. If your high school proposes some introduction to coding classes or any computer related class, it would wise to take some.
Then, like anything in life, it's all about experience. So wherever you feel ready, you can start on your own from the Internet, school, friends ...
To become a software Engineer, in general you need to attend college/university that propose either:
- a Bachelor Degree in Computer Science
- a Bachelor Degree in Computer Engineering
(note that there are somewhat different in today's literature thought quite close).
Anything above Bachelor Degree like Master Degree or Ph.D also works. Bachelor is the minimum.
For the school curriculum, it really depends if you want coding (computer science) or management (like IT) or hardware or in between.
Coding usually requires these basis:
- algorithm
- data structure
- one programming language
- possibly some query language
Hardware usually requires at least:
- computer architecture
- other hardware training as you see fit like FPGA, DSP ...
- Operating System introduction
For the other, really depends what you are targeting in the computer field... it is so vast.
During high school, you need to take some Maths like calculus, algebra. If you are interested in hardware as well, electricity/electronic will be a plus. If your high school proposes some introduction to coding classes or any computer related class, it would wise to take some.
Then, like anything in life, it's all about experience. So wherever you feel ready, you can start on your own from the Internet, school, friends ...
Updated
Atul’s Answer
If you are still in the high school, take courses in computer languages or learn about it beyond knowing the basics (MS Office) or Video games.
If you are graduating soon - pursue one of the following degrees it is listed in order (easy to challenging)
- BS in MIS
- BS in Computer Sc
- BS in Computer Engineering
- BS in Electrical Engineering.
Beyond knowing computer languages (Java,C, Python, etc.), what other courses you take will make a difference.
Nowadays if you want to work at Google, Amazon or Microsoft - you will have to pass their own tests. They are not easy. My son has Computer Engineering degree from the state school with almost perfect GPA - it was not good enough for Amazon, he had to take 3 hour test. 30 mins for each assignment. Once you pass then only you get the interview.
None of these degrees above are easy but you are focused and work hard you can be a good software developer.
As a software engineer (I did that for 10+ years), it is a great feeling to accomplish something.
Salary structures are very lucrative (6-figures starting salary, plus bonus plus stock options as well as signing bonus).
All the best
If you are graduating soon - pursue one of the following degrees it is listed in order (easy to challenging)
- BS in MIS
- BS in Computer Sc
- BS in Computer Engineering
- BS in Electrical Engineering.
Beyond knowing computer languages (Java,C, Python, etc.), what other courses you take will make a difference.
Nowadays if you want to work at Google, Amazon or Microsoft - you will have to pass their own tests. They are not easy. My son has Computer Engineering degree from the state school with almost perfect GPA - it was not good enough for Amazon, he had to take 3 hour test. 30 mins for each assignment. Once you pass then only you get the interview.
None of these degrees above are easy but you are focused and work hard you can be a good software developer.
As a software engineer (I did that for 10+ years), it is a great feeling to accomplish something.
Salary structures are very lucrative (6-figures starting salary, plus bonus plus stock options as well as signing bonus).
All the best
Updated
John’s Answer
The best way to become a software engineer is to start coding and have fun. In addition to formal training classes in HS or getting a technical degree, there are a lot of great and free online sites to learn how to code. The more you code (formal classes or self learning) will only help you get better.
Start by finding a language that you are interesting in learning and try to learn it. As a beginner I would suggest a modern programing language like Java or node.js.
Once you gain the basics and have a good foundation try coding challenges. There are a lot of sites out there that give a problem that you need to code the solution for. As a bonus several companies use sites like this as part of the technical interview process.
Learn to code sites (there are more out there):
https://www.khanacademy.org/computing/computer-programming
https://www.codecademy.com/catalog
Coding Challenges (one of several out there):
https://www.hackerrank.com/
Start by finding a language that you are interesting in learning and try to learn it. As a beginner I would suggest a modern programing language like Java or node.js.
Once you gain the basics and have a good foundation try coding challenges. There are a lot of sites out there that give a problem that you need to code the solution for. As a bonus several companies use sites like this as part of the technical interview process.
Learn to code sites (there are more out there):
https://www.khanacademy.org/computing/computer-programming
https://www.codecademy.com/catalog
Coding Challenges (one of several out there):
https://www.hackerrank.com/
Updated
PRASANJIT’s Answer
How to Become a Software Engineer:-
1. Explore on your own.
2. Pursue a technical degree or software engineering courses.
3. Practice your coding skills.
4. Create projects and samples of your skills on a development platform.
5. Get certified.
6. Be ready and willing to teach yourself new things.
7. Practice your coding skills some more.
1. Explore on your own.
2. Pursue a technical degree or software engineering courses.
3. Practice your coding skills.
4. Create projects and samples of your skills on a development platform.
5. Get certified.
6. Be ready and willing to teach yourself new things.
7. Practice your coding skills some more.