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What is a good way to enter the computer science field?
I'm in high school and I want to know how to reach further into the computer science field and what classes can further accel me more into the course.
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7 answers
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Peter’s Answer
Consider asking yourself two questions: a) Are you interested in studying computer science for the "science" aspect, or b) Are you more drawn to the "practical" side of computer science? These questions will guide you towards different interests and paths.
If you choose option a), it's essential to focus on developing your math skills, as they form the foundation of the "science" in computer science. On the other hand, if you select option b), strive to understand how the physical world operates. This understanding will help you see computer skills as a craft and recognize where they can be beneficial (to you or humanity) and where they might not be as effective.
If you choose option a), it's essential to focus on developing your math skills, as they form the foundation of the "science" in computer science. On the other hand, if you select option b), strive to understand how the physical world operates. This understanding will help you see computer skills as a craft and recognize where they can be beneficial (to you or humanity) and where they might not be as effective.
Updated
Tasman’s Answer
Hi there Dylan! I'm not quite a professional, but I'm getting real close.
I just finished my second year in Computer Engineering, but I know a good amount about the science aspect of Computer Science due to my classwork. A lot of these answers are great, but there are a few resources I'd like to point you in the direction.
As Peter Huang said, there's a pretty large difference between some of the larger fields in the Computer majors, primarily science vs engineering. If you're very interested in creating software, Software Engineering would likely give you a lot of the coursework to get you started through there. Computer Engineering is a lot of application in the physical space, so stuff like Embedded Programming (https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/embedded-systems-programming) and hardware (similar to Electrical Engineering). Computer Science is much more theoretical, but you can definitely go into Software Engineering roles as well.
Another thing to note is that Computer Science is very closely related to Advanced Maths, primarily Proofs. Graph theory is a big topic in Computer Science, and learning about these things might catch your interest, but it's very difficult to learn by yourself. Keep in mind that these are nothing like the Geometry proofs that you might've done before (I did these and absolutely hated them while I love proofs maths). Some examples of topics and proofs can be found in the following links (http://math.loyola.edu/~loberbro/ma421/BasicProofs.pdf http://math.loyola.edu/~loberbro/ma421/BasicProofs.pdf).
In terms of coursework, AP Computer Science (not principles) is a great way to learn more about programming, since it's in Java, which a lot of the skills transfer to other strongly typed languages like C or C++. Learning Python through Harvard's CS50 class is another option, and it's free! (https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50-introduction-computer-science). HTML, CSS, and Web Design are closer to software engineering, but I've also heard that they are relatively easy to learn compared to Java, C, C#, and C++.
Otherwise, doing individual projects is a VERY VERY excellent way to learn about technologies. It's quite difficult, but sticking with it can help you a lot. I had to do something similar for an App Development Class this past semester, and being able to figure out how to use software by yourself is an incredibly important skill to have.
That being said, none of these are really necessary! If you work hard in college and are interested in learning, you'll turn out fine! A lot of people go into computer science without any prior knowledge, and it's perfectly alright. This has been pretty long winded, but I hope this answers your question!
I just finished my second year in Computer Engineering, but I know a good amount about the science aspect of Computer Science due to my classwork. A lot of these answers are great, but there are a few resources I'd like to point you in the direction.
As Peter Huang said, there's a pretty large difference between some of the larger fields in the Computer majors, primarily science vs engineering. If you're very interested in creating software, Software Engineering would likely give you a lot of the coursework to get you started through there. Computer Engineering is a lot of application in the physical space, so stuff like Embedded Programming (https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/embedded-systems-programming) and hardware (similar to Electrical Engineering). Computer Science is much more theoretical, but you can definitely go into Software Engineering roles as well.
Another thing to note is that Computer Science is very closely related to Advanced Maths, primarily Proofs. Graph theory is a big topic in Computer Science, and learning about these things might catch your interest, but it's very difficult to learn by yourself. Keep in mind that these are nothing like the Geometry proofs that you might've done before (I did these and absolutely hated them while I love proofs maths). Some examples of topics and proofs can be found in the following links (http://math.loyola.edu/~loberbro/ma421/BasicProofs.pdf http://math.loyola.edu/~loberbro/ma421/BasicProofs.pdf).
In terms of coursework, AP Computer Science (not principles) is a great way to learn more about programming, since it's in Java, which a lot of the skills transfer to other strongly typed languages like C or C++. Learning Python through Harvard's CS50 class is another option, and it's free! (https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50-introduction-computer-science). HTML, CSS, and Web Design are closer to software engineering, but I've also heard that they are relatively easy to learn compared to Java, C, C#, and C++.
Otherwise, doing individual projects is a VERY VERY excellent way to learn about technologies. It's quite difficult, but sticking with it can help you a lot. I had to do something similar for an App Development Class this past semester, and being able to figure out how to use software by yourself is an incredibly important skill to have.
That being said, none of these are really necessary! If you work hard in college and are interested in learning, you'll turn out fine! A lot of people go into computer science without any prior knowledge, and it's perfectly alright. This has been pretty long winded, but I hope this answers your question!
Updated
Venu’s Answer
Hey Dylan, there's no need for extraordinary abilities to pursue a Computer Science major. All you require are solid problem-solving skills and a basic understanding of any programming language. Best of luck in your future endeavors!
Updated
Shaffaq’s Answer
Hey!
1. Try learning a few coding languages (just basics). I would suggest starting with Python and moving onto Java perhaps.
2. Build logic and critical thinking skills
3. Follow along with youtube coding videos
4. Work on projects (combine your other interests with your coding projects)
1. Try learning a few coding languages (just basics). I would suggest starting with Python and moving onto Java perhaps.
2. Build logic and critical thinking skills
3. Follow along with youtube coding videos
4. Work on projects (combine your other interests with your coding projects)
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Hi Dylan, thank you for your question. I am glad to hear you are interested in computer science.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Explore the entry criteria of Computer Science of the college
2. Work hard on those relevant subjects to meet the requirements
3. Identify some easy computer languages
4. Start learning the programming languages. There are plenty of resources online. You can do some small projects yourself
5. Attend the information session held by the colleges’ computer science department
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Explore the entry criteria of Computer Science of the college
2. Work hard on those relevant subjects to meet the requirements
3. Identify some easy computer languages
4. Start learning the programming languages. There are plenty of resources online. You can do some small projects yourself
5. Attend the information session held by the colleges’ computer science department
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Dylan, why hold back? Go ahead and get yourself an affordable, second-hand computer, load it up with a complimentary version of Linux like Fedora or Ubuntu, and then equip it with free programming languages such as Python. Don't forget to add on free database managers like MySQL or MariaDB. Then, dive into the sea of free online courses available. Dip your toes into everything - be it designing a website, crafting computer video games, or doing some data anlytics. Once you've tasted a bit of everything, you'll gain clarity on your likes and dislikes, guiding you towards the right college courses.
Regrettably, I've encountered numerous students who delayed hands-on programming, only to realize too late that it wasn't their cup of tea or it was too challenging. This revelation often came in their third or fourth year of college, forcing them to change majors. Don't let this be your story. Discovering your passion will help you channel your study efforts effectively.
Buy an old, cheap computer
Install free version of Linux, such as Fedora or Ubuntu
Install programming languages
Install database manager
Find free courses online
Regrettably, I've encountered numerous students who delayed hands-on programming, only to realize too late that it wasn't their cup of tea or it was too challenging. This revelation often came in their third or fourth year of college, forcing them to change majors. Don't let this be your story. Discovering your passion will help you channel your study efforts effectively.
Tony recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Look into the curriculum. It is a broad field and many areas that you can choose. example, Data Scientist, Data Analytics, Developer, Information Systems, Security. Choose what you like and feel where your strengths may be. You may want to do a Liberal Arts where you can choose various classes within each subject. Remember look over the curriculum carefully and see which may off the best electives.
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Dylan