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What are the next steps I need to take as a Computer Scientist / software developer?

What is the best way to get experience in Computer Science? We learn how to use C++ on visual studio but in the workforce, I feel like there's so much more than this and a different way to apply the skills I've learned here. What do I do to be prepared for that future?

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Julie’s Answer

Hello! Start working on personal projects to sharpen your skills. Try recreating existing games or inventing your own. You can also visit LeetCode to practice and improve your abilities.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! I've heard of starting your own projects and I've started on some. What is a good way to showcase those projects when completed? What should I include? (Process, end product, sketches). And I will definitely look at LeetCode, thank you! Anna
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Zandisile’s Answer

Hi Anna

I’d advice you to build projects in C++ to test yourself and learn more practical programming languages used in the industry like JavaScript, HTML and CSS/ Java. In order to prepare yourself for the future is by networking with Software Engineers or like-minded students from your college that are also looking into working in tech. Another way to prepare yourself is gaining a bit of experience while you’re still in college, like looking for internships, even unpaid ones at first from startups, NGOs and local businesses. Freelance work can also be beneficial, look for clients on Upwork or Fiverr. All of these ways are not only good for using your skills but also working on building an impressive resume and portfolio
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Arun’s Answer

Hey! A great way to get involved in open source projects, whether big or small, is to start contributing. This experience will expose you to things you won't learn in school. Begin by updating documentation to fix grammar and typos. This will help you learn about version control systems. Next, try reporting issues, then move on to adding test cases. This will introduce you to the DevOps pipeline and help you explore the codebase. Finally, check the backlog for simple issues you can solve. This process will teach you skills that aren't covered in school.

P.S. Be open to feedback. The open-source community is generally friendly, but remember that everyone is different, and some comments might be harsh.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for the advice! Where would you suggest I go to look for open source projects? I know there's opportunities on some sites or even Wikipedia to upload some things or correct them, but if there's anymore you'd suggest? I will try to keep a healthy mindset through the negative comments I might receive! Thank you for the encouragement! Anna
Thank you comment icon My pleasure Anna. When I say open-source project, I mean a project available on the public domain that is in a topic that interests you. Some that interests me are in the kubernetes eco-system space, linux foundation projects are another, so is apache projects or SPIFEE projects in the security space. When looking for one, I would look at a low hanging one on a reputable group. For example a new project in the Kubernetes space https://github.com/kubernetes Arun Thundyill Saseendran
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