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Computer Science Majors- How did you choose which field to study in?
Each field in computer science is diverse in its own way, and I'm not sure which field I want to go into! If you majored in computer science, how did you know that the field you studied was right for you?
#computer-science #technology #college #majors
5 answers
Ken Meier
Information Security Team Lead | Identity Access Management | MS Cybersecurity | CISSP-ISSMP
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Ken’s Answer
I choose to major in Computer Science because I love technology and was in high school during the dot-com boom of the 90's when the opportunities were unbelievable. A CS degree is well respected and you can use it to springboard into many different jobs. Just be sure to do some internships too because hands on experience is valued above all else. Also remember that CS is very broad, you'll want to try to focus on a particular role or area as soon as you can.
Thank you so much for the advice, Ken!
Amanda
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
First, I'd suggest checking which area you are most interested in, as this will give you an edge when researching and going the extra mile. Try and order the areas as a list and see which ones come on top so you can focus your choices.
Secondly, choosing one area does not mean it bars you from studying other areas on the side, or eventually taking additional courses, reading books, or doing your research. This is what science is all about, where you carve your particular niche knowledge area.
Finally, get in touch with a mentor. I cannot stress this enough. They will be able to guide you from their experience, and your journey will be a lot more enjoyable and rewarding!
Secondly, choosing one area does not mean it bars you from studying other areas on the side, or eventually taking additional courses, reading books, or doing your research. This is what science is all about, where you carve your particular niche knowledge area.
Finally, get in touch with a mentor. I cannot stress this enough. They will be able to guide you from their experience, and your journey will be a lot more enjoyable and rewarding!
Thanks for the advice, Joseph!
Amanda
Updated
Kumar’s Answer
I wanted to go into Game Design, then into AI/ML, then Cloud Computing, then Quantum Computing. I was confused too. I took courses related to Game Design, AI/ML, Cloud Computing but couldn't take enough courses for a particular major.
You are right, every field is diverse in it's own way. I got a taste of all paths and I ended up becoming a generalist. It's like Jack of all trades but master of none. It has it's own advantage. I can pick up anything if I really want to go into it but I prefer to be a generalist for now.
If you want to become a specialist, you should be determined to work enough to go that path. It's driven by passion. If you are passionate about doing something in the field, you would find a way. Do enough research and work in that direction. In computer science, things which might generate curiosity, might be very mundane work. Get a taste of what you might be going into by going through resources available on internet, doing hands-on small projects. If you have interest, generate more by diving into it. Take others opinions, guidance. Do meaningful courses which could add to your resume as well. Have a plan.
You are right, every field is diverse in it's own way. I got a taste of all paths and I ended up becoming a generalist. It's like Jack of all trades but master of none. It has it's own advantage. I can pick up anything if I really want to go into it but I prefer to be a generalist for now.
If you want to become a specialist, you should be determined to work enough to go that path. It's driven by passion. If you are passionate about doing something in the field, you would find a way. Do enough research and work in that direction. In computer science, things which might generate curiosity, might be very mundane work. Get a taste of what you might be going into by going through resources available on internet, doing hands-on small projects. If you have interest, generate more by diving into it. Take others opinions, guidance. Do meaningful courses which could add to your resume as well. Have a plan.
Thank you so much, Kumar!
Amanda
Updated
Ali’s Answer
You may want to see what area of computer science interests you the best. Selecting courses does not preclude you from changing what areas you plan to work on or cannot change courses later in your study. I like hands-on so I choose computer hardware design and coding.
Hope this helps you decide
Hope this helps you decide
Thanks, Ali!
Amanda
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
I chose computer science because I was always pretty good at math and science, and I always loved technology growing up. I was kind of hesitant about it myself at first, but as I started my education, I ended up being better at it than I thought. You really cannot know if it will be a good fit until you try, so look around online and check it out before you make the decision.
Thanks for the response, Taylor!
Amanda
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