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What classes should I take if I want to pursue computer science?
What classes are good for computer science.
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Jason’s Answer
Great that you're interested in computer science. Computer science is a broad field so if you have a more specific idea of what kind of computer science you're interested in studying, like going into hardware or software, that might help you in terms of picking classes to take. If you are in high school, I think the kinds of classes that might help the most are math classes. Algebra, with its focus on variables, will be very helpful, calculus, and statistics will also hopefully help you develop a firm foundation for the concepts that will be introduced in a computer science major. If you have the opportunity, Advanced Placement offers Computer Science options that will be a good introduction to what college coursework will be like. Science classes, like physics, might also be useful for introducing some of the concepts that you may run into as well. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that there is not just one way to prepare for something like computer science. It just takes a willingness to be open and learn. That means don't neglect the general education kind of classes that you will take. Communication skills will go a long way so learning how to effectively read and write will be very helpful in general.
Good luck and I hope that helps.
Good luck and I hope that helps.
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Jalen
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Carlos’s Answer
It's great you're already preparing! As someone else mentioned: computer science is broad and has many, many branching fields.
Strictly speaking, computer science is logical theory at its core. Because of that, math classes such as Algebra and Calculus would benefit the most. If your school offers any classes around statistics, logic, or math theory, those will also help. Hobbies like chess play into that by teaching different ways of thinking and are a great complement.
Beyond that, applied computer sciences go hand in hand with programming. Classes like AP Computer Science are great introductions to programming and some of what I've mentioned above. Extracurriculars like a robotics club are great middle point, as they will definitely help strengthen your software skills and will expose you to hardware.
Lastly, I'll echo that communication skills are extremely important. They will help when you have to explain complex topics in a simple way or when you have to collaborate with others in teamwork. This will make a big difference both in college and in the work field. Joining organizations like Toastmasters can help you develop these.
Open-mindedness and eagerness to learn can get you far. Good luck!
Strictly speaking, computer science is logical theory at its core. Because of that, math classes such as Algebra and Calculus would benefit the most. If your school offers any classes around statistics, logic, or math theory, those will also help. Hobbies like chess play into that by teaching different ways of thinking and are a great complement.
Beyond that, applied computer sciences go hand in hand with programming. Classes like AP Computer Science are great introductions to programming and some of what I've mentioned above. Extracurriculars like a robotics club are great middle point, as they will definitely help strengthen your software skills and will expose you to hardware.
Lastly, I'll echo that communication skills are extremely important. They will help when you have to explain complex topics in a simple way or when you have to collaborate with others in teamwork. This will make a big difference both in college and in the work field. Joining organizations like Toastmasters can help you develop these.
Open-mindedness and eagerness to learn can get you far. Good luck!
Thank you, Carlos!
Jalen