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What should I do to get into a good university for Computer Sciences?

I am a 16 year old from India and I want to pursue a career in AI and machine learning. I have taken up a course to give me some beforehand knowledge about the same, but now I wish to make projects of my interest. This might be the right time to state that I do NOT know a lot about coding in order for me to make a project by myself. I do have computer science as a subject in school though, so you can you I am pretty familiar with python.

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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for question. I am glad to hear that you have interest in programming and familiar with python.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Continue to use python to do some small projects, eg, control robotic arm, toy car, etc
2. Start learning other programming languages, eg C++, JavaScript, Java, etc. There are plenty of resources online.
3. Practise different programming languages. Practise makes perfect!
4. Explore the entry criteria computer science course in the college
5. Work hard to meet the entry requirements
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much. One thing, your first point regarding the small projects, can you please tell me more about that? Mananya
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hi Mananya,

Welcome to Your Journey to a Top Computer Science University: A Friendly Guide

Let's Get Started
Setting your sights on a top-notch university for Computer Science, with a special emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, is a bold and exciting aspiration. As a 16-year-old from India, it's key to start early and build a robust base in the field. This guide is here to offer you a roadmap to help you fulfill your dream of launching a career in AI and ML.

Master the Fundamentals
Before you plunge into projects, make sure you're well-versed in the basics of computer science and programming. Given that you're already acquainted with Python, it's a good idea to further deepen your understanding of this language. Helpful resources like “Python Crash Course” by Eric Matthes and “Automate the Boring Stuff with Python” by Al Sweigart can be your go-to guides to polish your Python skills.

Hone Your Problem-Solving Skills
AI and Machine Learning call for excellent problem-solving skills. Join online competitions hosted by platforms like CodeChef, HackerRank, and TopCoder to sharpen your problem-solving prowess. These platforms provide a myriad of problems in various programming languages, including Python.

Explore More Programming Languages
While Python is a fantastic starting point, getting to know other programming languages such as C++, Java, and JavaScript will broaden your understanding of computer science. You can turn to resources like “C++ Primer” by Stanley B. Lippman, “Java: A Beginner’s Guide” by Herbert Schildt, and “JavaScript: Understanding the Weird Parts” by Anthony Alicea.

Get Hands-On with Projects
Once you've built a solid foundation in programming and problem-solving, it's time to roll up your sleeves and start working on AI and ML projects. Aim to create projects that tackle real-world issues or explore intriguing aspects of the field. Platforms like GitHub, Kaggle, and HackerRank are great places to display your work and team up with others.

Dive into Internships and Workshops
Internships and workshops offer invaluable practical experience and networking opportunities. Keep an eye out for internship openings at tech companies or join workshops hosted by universities or big names like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. These experiences will equip you with practical knowledge and help you establish industry connections.

Connect with Industry Professionals
Networking is a key component in any field, and AI and ML are no different. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to mingle with industry professionals. Join online communities like Reddit’s r/MachineLearning, LinkedIn Groups, and Stack Overflow to engage with peers and gain insights from their experiences.

Gear Up for Standardized Tests
Standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and TOEFL are often prerequisites for university admission. Preparing for these tests will not only boost your chances of securing a spot in a top university but also help you hone essential test-taking skills. Resources like “The Official SAT Study Guide” and “Kaplan’s Guide to the TOEFL Test” can aid in your preparation.

Scout for Universities and Scholarships
Begin your search for universities that boast strong Computer Science and AI programs. Websites like US News, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education offer rankings and details about universities worldwide. Also, keep an eye out for scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support your education.

Wrapping Up
Embarking on a career in AI and Machine Learning demands commitment, perseverance, and a solid grounding in computer science. By following these steps, you can enhance your chances of securing a spot in a top university and jumpstart your journey in the thrilling world of AI.

Key References

Python Crash Course by Eric Matthes - This book is a fantastic resource for beginners to learn the Python programming language and grasp its fundamentals.

Automate the Boring Stuff with Python by Al Sweigart - This book emphasizes the practical applications of Python and instructs users on how to automate various tasks using the language.

Kaggle - Kaggle is a vibrant online community of data scientists and machine learning enthusiasts. It hosts various competitions and resources to help learners enhance their skills and work on real-world projects.

For a list of wholesome and nutritious foods, please refer to my autobiography.

Stay Blessed,
James.
Thank you comment icon Loved reading this, thanks! Mananya
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Jérôme’s Answer

Hello Mananya,

Embarking on a career in technology can be an exciting journey, with a vast array of paths to choose from, be it technical, non-technical, or a blend of both. Your unique interests and passions will guide you towards what truly resonates with you. If you're drawn towards the technical side, it's a great idea to start diving into the basics of computing. Participating in clubs, either in-person or online, as well as internships, can offer you a glimpse into this fascinating world and help you gain a clearer perspective.

Remember, even if you're not a programmer/developer, you can still achieve remarkable success in cutting-edge technologies like AI. Don't let the absence of programming skills deter you. However, if you're passionate about computer science, starting with the fundamentals of computing and application programming languages, as others have suggested, will undoubtedly give you a strong head start when you step into university.

Best of luck on your journey! Keep nurturing your curiosity and never stop asking questions!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Mananya
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Mananya !

It is wonderful that you have chosen a career and are preparing the foundation for further education now !

I have provided a link below that has a list of schools that carry programs for your major. You are currently doing the right thing by taking computer science and I would suggest joining any groups or clubs in school and network a bit with like minded classmates. Keep taking computer related courses at your current school. You will have gained a good resume by the time you are ready to apply to colleges.

Although I cannot tell you any guaranteed information that will have you admitted to a university that you like, this is part of the journey - research. Go to the various colleges websites. See what their application process is and also what they require and now would be the time to prepare with obtaining experience and working on computer related projects. Than, when you are ready to apply, go back to the websites for more updated, current information. Pay attention to your oral and written communication skills, analytical skills and presentation skills. Strive for good grades as your GPA may factor into college admissions.

For now and moving forward, work on things you already know. For the things you do not know, search the internet for presentations or tutorials or even free classes. These will help you along your way.

As for a "good" university, that would only be your choice after you've evaluated some schools and get a feel for what they are like. If you can, the best way to discover this is to go for an orientation at the schools or just drop in at the campuses and walk around. This experience will give you the opportunity to ask questions that are specific to each school about the way things are done. You can even ask and become familiar with the general admission requirements so you'll be prepared.

You sound as though you are off to an awesome start and have paid close attention to creating a good foundation for yourself. Keep up this good work and never give up ! Best wishes to you along your exciting journey !

Michelle recommends the following next steps:

COMPUTER SCIENCE SCHOOLS IN DELHI https://www.entrancezone.com/btech/computer-science-engineering-colleges-in-delhi
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much!! Really appreciate this. One thing I wanted to add, I was actually aiming for universities in the US. Mananya
Thank you comment icon You are very welcome, Mananya ! Here would be some good schools for you in the U.S. : https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-graphic-design/ Michelle M.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Mananya
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Taylor’s Answer

Many other people here have given good pieces of advice, but I would like to add one thing: find opportunities for leadership for your interests outside of computer science. It might seem easy to kind of box yourself in and only do things related to programming, but colleges also pay attention to experiences you have that show you are a well-rounded person. So engage in your hobbies, join club leadership, or play sports you enjoy in addition to the computer science work you do. These experiences will show you are a person beyond academics, and that is also very important.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Mananya,

To get into a good university for Computer Sciences, especially focusing on AI and machine learning, here are some steps you can take:

Build a Strong Foundation in Computer Science: Since you already have some familiarity with Python and computer science subjects in school, continue to deepen your understanding of programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and other core concepts in computer science. This will form the basis of your knowledge as you progress towards AI and machine learning.

Work on Projects: While you mentioned that you do not know a lot about coding to create projects independently, this is a great opportunity to start learning by doing. Consider starting with small projects that interest you and gradually increase their complexity as you gain more skills. There are numerous online resources and tutorials available to help you with project ideas and implementation.

Online Courses and Certifications: Enroll in online courses or certifications related to AI and machine learning. Platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer a wide range of courses taught by experts in the field. Completing these courses not only enhances your knowledge but also demonstrates your commitment to learning.

Participate in Coding Competitions: Engaging in coding competitions such as hackathons or coding challenges can help sharpen your problem-solving skills and expose you to real-world coding scenarios. Platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode, and Codeforces host regular competitions that you can participate in.

Contribute to Open Source Projects: Contributing to open source projects on platforms like GitHub can provide valuable hands-on experience working on real-world projects alongside experienced developers. It also showcases your coding skills and collaboration abilities to university admissions committees.

Seek Mentorship: Consider reaching out to professionals or professors in the field of AI and machine learning for mentorship. They can provide guidance, advice, and insights based on their own experiences, helping you navigate your academic and career path effectively.

Prepare for Entrance Exams: In India, many universities require students to take entrance exams such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, or state-specific engineering entrance exams for admission to computer science programs. Make sure to prepare thoroughly for these exams to increase your chances of securing admission.

Maintain a Strong Academic Record: Universities often consider academic performance alongside extracurricular activities and achievements during the admission process. Focus on maintaining a strong academic record while actively pursuing your interests in AI and machine learning.

By following these steps diligently, you can enhance your chances of getting into a good university for Computer Sciences with a focus on AI and machine learning.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Stanford University’s Online Courses: Stanford University offers online courses on platforms like Coursera related to AI, machine learning, and computer science fundamentals. These courses are taught by Stanford professors and are highly regarded in the industry.

GitHub: GitHub is a widely used platform for hosting open source projects and collaborating with developers worldwide. By contributing to projects on GitHub, aspiring computer science students can showcase their skills and build a portfolio that demonstrates their coding abilities.

HackerRank: HackerRank is a popular platform for coding challenges and competitions that help individuals improve their coding skills through practice problems across various domains including algorithms, data structures, AI, and machine learning. Engaging with HackerRank can be beneficial for students looking to enhance their problem-solving abilities in preparation for university studies in computer science.

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
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