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What are some good personal qualities a person should work towards having to be successful in a career with computer science?

I am a high school student who is in a comp sci class considering options as a computer science major or coder. I don't know what is required and what kind of attributes as a 16 year old I should work towards.

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Subject: Career question for you

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Hello Sarah— as a young student, some basic skills I’d recommend you consider are:

1. Reliability (including punctuality and dependability)—show up when you say you are, and on time.

2. Offer to help when you can—take on responsibilities that are reasonable for you that fit with your realistic time constraints.

3. Be respectful—of the people you’re dealing with, be polite when hearing other point of views.

4. Be open, or inclusive about things you may not yet know, or are willing to learn.

These attributes are not specific to computer science but can be used as you grow and develop. You’ve shown the first steps in asking your question. Good luck to you!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Sarah!

Here's a friendly guide on the important personal traits you might want to cultivate for a successful journey into the world of computer science:

1. **Problem-Solving Skills**: Computer science is all about solving intricate puzzles. So, try to enhance your analytical and critical thinking abilities. This means learning how to break big problems into smaller, manageable parts, and using both logic and creativity to find the best solutions.

2. **Curiosity and Continuous Learning**: Computer science is an ever-evolving field. So, keep your curiosity alive and develop a love for learning new tech and programming languages. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends will give your career a significant boost.

3. **Attention to Detail**: Coding is like crafting a masterpiece, even the tiniest mistake can lead to big issues. So, train your eyes to catch every detail and be thorough in your work. This will ensure your programs run smoothly and efficiently.

4. **Adaptability and Flexibility**: The tech world is always on the move, and being able to adapt to change is key. Welcome new challenges, be open to different strategies, and stay flexible in your problem-solving approach. This will help you thrive in a computer science career.

5. **Collaboration and Communication Skills**: While a lot of computer science work is solo, teamwork is often required for big projects. So, work on your communication skills, both spoken and written. This will help you explain complex tech concepts and work well with others.

6. **Persistence and Resilience**: Building a career in computer science can come with its fair share of hurdles. So, build your resilience and persistence to face these challenges head-on and turn them into stepping stones for success. Remember if you make code that is spurious and you have "mussed up your copybook," do not be scared to rewrite the code. Practice and repetition makes perfect!

7. **Creativity**: Even though coding is logical and structured, creativity plays a big role in computer science. Thinking outside the box and coming up with innovative solutions will make you stand out as a programmer or computer scientist.

8. **Ethical Awareness**: As technology increasingly impacts society, it's important to have a strong ethical compass. Understanding the ethical implications of tech and making responsible decisions is crucial in this field.

By focusing on these traits, you'll be setting a solid foundation for a successful career in computer science.

The information provided here is based on authoritative references from:

1. **IEEE Xplore Digital Library**: A leading resource for scientific and technical content by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
2. **Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)**: A top-notch organization for computing professionals, offering a wealth of resources related to computer science.
3. **Stanford University’s Computer Science Department**: A trusted academic institution providing valuable insights into the skills needed for success in computer science careers.

May you be blessed abundantly!
James.
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Kunal’s Answer

There are several personal qualities that can contribute to a successful career in computer science. Here are some important ones:

1. Problem-solving skills: Computer science involves solving complex problems, so having strong problem-solving abilities is crucial. This includes the ability to analyze problems, break them down into smaller components, and develop effective solutions.

2. Analytical thinking: Computer science often requires analyzing large amounts of data and information. Being able to think critically and logically, and to identify patterns and trends, is essential for success in this field.

3. Attention to detail: Computer science involves working with intricate systems and codes, where even a small error can have significant consequences. Having a keen eye for detail and being meticulous in your work can help you avoid mistakes and produce high-quality results.

4. Curiosity and continuous learning: Technology is constantly evolving, so it's important to have a genuine curiosity and passion for learning. Being open to new ideas, staying updated with the latest advancements, and continuously improving your skills are key to a successful career in computer science.

5. Strong communication skills: Computer scientists often work in teams and collaborate with others. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential for conveying ideas, explaining complex concepts, and working well with colleagues and clients.

6. Adaptability and flexibility: The field of computer science is dynamic and rapidly changing. Being adaptable and flexible in your approach, and being able to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies, can help you thrive in this ever-evolving industry.

7. Persistence and resilience: Problem-solving in computer science can be challenging and require perseverance. Having the determination to overcome obstacles, learn from failures, and keep pushing forward is important for long-term success.

Remember, while these qualities can contribute to a successful career in computer science, they can also be developed and improved over time with practice and experience.
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Louis’s Answer

Boost your communication and presentation skills, they're vital in conveying your thoughts effectively. Engage in team activities while you're in school, as they're excellent for honing your interpersonal skills. Remember, mastery in anything requires practice, so seize every opportunity to refine your skills. Don't worry if you don't get it right the first time, with consistent practice, you'll become highly skilled. This principle applies to coding as well, it demands time and practice to excel.
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