4 answers
Zarianna
Student
Bronxville, New York
1
Question
Asked
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how hard is computer Science?
Like in college is it really hard and a lot of work?
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4 answers
Luke Trimberger
Student
68
Answers
Champaign, Illinois
Updated
Luke’s Answer
Computer science is a challenging major, but it is not impossible to succeed. The key is to be prepared and to be willing to put in the work.
Here are some tips for succeeding in computer science:
Take as much math as you can in high school. This will give you a strong foundation in the math skills that you will need for college.
Start learning to code early. There are many online resources that can help you learn to code.
Get involved in extracurricular activities related to computer science, such as the computer science club or the robotics team.
Find a mentor who can help you learn and grow.
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. There are many people who are willing to help you succeed, such as your professors, advisors, and classmates.
If you are willing to put in the work, you can succeed in computer science. It is a challenging major, but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Here are some tips for succeeding in computer science:
Take as much math as you can in high school. This will give you a strong foundation in the math skills that you will need for college.
Start learning to code early. There are many online resources that can help you learn to code.
Get involved in extracurricular activities related to computer science, such as the computer science club or the robotics team.
Find a mentor who can help you learn and grow.
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. There are many people who are willing to help you succeed, such as your professors, advisors, and classmates.
If you are willing to put in the work, you can succeed in computer science. It is a challenging major, but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Mark Moseley
Retired
26
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Mark’s Answer
No, software development is not necessarily difficult, especially if you are passionate about what you are doing. There are undoubtedly fun jobs in the field, and the software you create plays a significant role in determining how enjoyable your work is.
For instance, I once worked for a company whose business model relied on travelers using expensive computer services in hotel business centers. Our customers were on expense accounts, so they didn't mind the high costs. However, I found the job unfulfilling and decided to switch to a position in the healthcare industry, which I enjoyed tremendously.
In any case, the key to having a fulfilling job in software development is finding a work environment where you feel like you are part of a team that enjoys working together. A prime example of this is Mark Frohnmayer, the son of the President of the University of Oregon 20 years ago, who created Garage Games with a group of his close friends. The result was an impressive, successful company.
When a team works well together, it often creates an atmosphere of camaraderie, friendship, and fun, leading to better results and increased job satisfaction. It is particularly beneficial to have diverse teams, including women, who tend to be more socially aware than men, as noted by Jordan Peterson. This observation is also supported by my personal experience, which has shown that having a diverse, friendly team can be the key to an enjoyable and rewarding career in software development.
For instance, I once worked for a company whose business model relied on travelers using expensive computer services in hotel business centers. Our customers were on expense accounts, so they didn't mind the high costs. However, I found the job unfulfilling and decided to switch to a position in the healthcare industry, which I enjoyed tremendously.
In any case, the key to having a fulfilling job in software development is finding a work environment where you feel like you are part of a team that enjoys working together. A prime example of this is Mark Frohnmayer, the son of the President of the University of Oregon 20 years ago, who created Garage Games with a group of his close friends. The result was an impressive, successful company.
When a team works well together, it often creates an atmosphere of camaraderie, friendship, and fun, leading to better results and increased job satisfaction. It is particularly beneficial to have diverse teams, including women, who tend to be more socially aware than men, as noted by Jordan Peterson. This observation is also supported by my personal experience, which has shown that having a diverse, friendly team can be the key to an enjoyable and rewarding career in software development.
T.J. Worthy
Mentor
203
Answers
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Updated
T.J.’s Answer
Hello Zarianna!
Some people consider Computer Science (CS) programs hard for a few reasons.
From the outside, a person may assume CS is "just" coding. While there is computer programming, you're expected to do a lot more than that.
You use logical reasoning skills to solve complex problems. You have to "think" in a new way in order to create programs. You have to place yourself inside of the mind of a computer. Overall, you'll need to think like a computer.
Also, the major contains a good portion of math. Math for CS allows you to better understand how software works. Generally, a lot of people consider math the hardest subject in school.
If you like algorithms, data, computers, math, and are capable problem-solving through various projects regardless of the difficulty level:
┈┈┈ Computer science might be a great fit for you!
But:
If you hate math, doing hard problems, or struggle to perform logical thinking:
┈┈┈ Computer Science may not be a great fit for you.
Some people make the mistake of majoring in CS, because they want to make a lot of money after college.
Truly, there is 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 nothing wrong with wanting money.
However, money should not be the 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 reason why you choose a major.
Choose the major that makes sense for you. ┈┈┈┈┈ For your skills, your natural aptitude in subjects, what you're willing to learn, and what you're actually comfortable doing every-day in your career.
Sending you encouragement as you decide on Computer Science :)
Some people consider Computer Science (CS) programs hard for a few reasons.
From the outside, a person may assume CS is "just" coding. While there is computer programming, you're expected to do a lot more than that.
You use logical reasoning skills to solve complex problems. You have to "think" in a new way in order to create programs. You have to place yourself inside of the mind of a computer. Overall, you'll need to think like a computer.
Also, the major contains a good portion of math. Math for CS allows you to better understand how software works. Generally, a lot of people consider math the hardest subject in school.
If you like algorithms, data, computers, math, and are capable problem-solving through various projects regardless of the difficulty level:
┈┈┈ Computer science might be a great fit for you!
But:
If you hate math, doing hard problems, or struggle to perform logical thinking:
┈┈┈ Computer Science may not be a great fit for you.
Some people make the mistake of majoring in CS, because they want to make a lot of money after college.
Truly, there is 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 nothing wrong with wanting money.
However, money should not be the 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 reason why you choose a major.
Choose the major that makes sense for you. ┈┈┈┈┈ For your skills, your natural aptitude in subjects, what you're willing to learn, and what you're actually comfortable doing every-day in your career.
Sending you encouragement as you decide on Computer Science :)
Tom Joseph
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Tom’s Answer
I think it's very reasonable to get a degree in computer science or other STEM majors. However, I think many students coming straight from high-school aren't taught the necessary skills and/or don't have the necessary work ethic and discipline required to succeed in such tough majors. This is a big reason so many end up dropping out or switching majors when they begin college. That said though, I think if you have the desire and the will to succeed, you can definitely get the degree. Some students will have it easier than others. Like others have said in this discussion, the more math and challenging courses you take early on, the easier it will be to grasp CS topics. Definitely be involved in your university, don't be afraid to ask questions, go to office hours, make connections with other students, TA's, professors, etc.