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What to do career wise after bad uni grades?
I'm a 3rd year CS student and my overall grades for university are disappointing to say the least, and I'm not sure what I should do to progress after I'm done on my course. I don't feel like that grade will be enough to get a good grad job and I'm wondering what can be done to get the foot in the door when it comes to a career which is what I heard really matters. I'm interested in a data science/ software engineering career
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Aisha’s Answer
Hello Joshua,
Experiencing low grades at university might feel discouraging, but it's important to remember that this doesn't determine your future. Begin by focusing on acquiring hands-on skills through internships, freelance work, or contributing to open-source projects. Develop a robust portfolio that highlights your proficiency in data science or software engineering. Networking plays a vital role; make sure to attend industry-related events, establish connections with professionals on LinkedIn, and look for mentorship opportunities. Think about pursuing additional certifications or online courses to enhance your knowledge base. Highlight your enthusiasm, proactive approach, and eagerness to learn when applying for jobs and during interviews. Remember, many employers prioritize practical skills and a positive attitude over academic grades. Stay determined and persistent, and you'll be able to thrive in your chosen career.
Experiencing low grades at university might feel discouraging, but it's important to remember that this doesn't determine your future. Begin by focusing on acquiring hands-on skills through internships, freelance work, or contributing to open-source projects. Develop a robust portfolio that highlights your proficiency in data science or software engineering. Networking plays a vital role; make sure to attend industry-related events, establish connections with professionals on LinkedIn, and look for mentorship opportunities. Think about pursuing additional certifications or online courses to enhance your knowledge base. Highlight your enthusiasm, proactive approach, and eagerness to learn when applying for jobs and during interviews. Remember, many employers prioritize practical skills and a positive attitude over academic grades. Stay determined and persistent, and you'll be able to thrive in your chosen career.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Joshua
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Joseph’s Answer
This was also my situation - I struggled with some of the more abstract material in my undergrad, and didn't come out with the best grade. My solution was to follow up the degree with a Masters at a different university - although I knew I'd struggle to go much further with the subfield I did my undergrad in, so I took a slight side step into a different subfield for the MSc.
For me, my undergrad was Physics with Astrophysics, but I did reasonably well in some of the nuclear and atomic physics modules, so took a nuclear physics Masters, which has led on to a successful career in that field. For you as a Comp Sci grad, if you wanted to follow that sort of pathway, I'd think about similar but related postgrad options in subfields you might have touched on and enjoyed during your studies - I'm sure there's data science MSc courses around if you feel able to follow up in that area, but other options might include going in different areas like robotics, AI, etc.
However, you mention software engineering as a possible career, and software engineering and programming tend to have a quite unique position in STEM fields as being ones where you often find academic grades don't matter that much, and really what many companies hire for are specific certifications in the software and toolchains that are in use at each company. You might do much better by putting some time and money aside to pursue courses and certifications in tools and languages that employers actually want, rather than worrying too much about academic performance. I know when I was last browsing job sites I saw many roles asking about Microsoft and Cisco certifications, but the tech industry can be fast moving and fickle and there might well be something else in demand by now - you should do a bit of research into what certifications are in demand today.
For me, my undergrad was Physics with Astrophysics, but I did reasonably well in some of the nuclear and atomic physics modules, so took a nuclear physics Masters, which has led on to a successful career in that field. For you as a Comp Sci grad, if you wanted to follow that sort of pathway, I'd think about similar but related postgrad options in subfields you might have touched on and enjoyed during your studies - I'm sure there's data science MSc courses around if you feel able to follow up in that area, but other options might include going in different areas like robotics, AI, etc.
However, you mention software engineering as a possible career, and software engineering and programming tend to have a quite unique position in STEM fields as being ones where you often find academic grades don't matter that much, and really what many companies hire for are specific certifications in the software and toolchains that are in use at each company. You might do much better by putting some time and money aside to pursue courses and certifications in tools and languages that employers actually want, rather than worrying too much about academic performance. I know when I was last browsing job sites I saw many roles asking about Microsoft and Cisco certifications, but the tech industry can be fast moving and fickle and there might well be something else in demand by now - you should do a bit of research into what certifications are in demand today.
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Alastair’s Answer
I think that with CS especially there is so much you can do to build your portfolio other than academic output.
One thing I will say is that if you want to compete with people, with traditional high education status, then you need to be as good as them or better ... You cant compete with someone with 1st if you have a 3rd - if all you focus is on academic output...
You have to think about the ways you can differentiate yourself - Personally when applying for a role I always try to adopt a 'wildcard' mindset. How can you be novel and different, what can you bring that no one else can? It wont always work, some folks just want the A* student - but you were not going to get that opportunity anyway... but finding new ways to reach people, sharing new ideas with them, doing things differently, finding business value in places where normally there is only cost are all ways that will really stand out, and for the right person will seal the deal...
Speaking as a person with 6 GCSE's and no A-level who has been lucky enough to build successful careers in Healthcare management, nonprofit, landscaping and tech
One thing I will say is that if you want to compete with people, with traditional high education status, then you need to be as good as them or better ... You cant compete with someone with 1st if you have a 3rd - if all you focus is on academic output...
You have to think about the ways you can differentiate yourself - Personally when applying for a role I always try to adopt a 'wildcard' mindset. How can you be novel and different, what can you bring that no one else can? It wont always work, some folks just want the A* student - but you were not going to get that opportunity anyway... but finding new ways to reach people, sharing new ideas with them, doing things differently, finding business value in places where normally there is only cost are all ways that will really stand out, and for the right person will seal the deal...
Speaking as a person with 6 GCSE's and no A-level who has been lucky enough to build successful careers in Healthcare management, nonprofit, landscaping and tech
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Dave’s Answer
Hello Joshua,
Don't let your grades discourage you. There are numerous instances of individuals who have built successful careers without perfect exam scores. Remember, being the ideal candidate for a job can be just as significant as the qualifications you possess.
Drawing from my own journey, there are myriad ways to enhance your skills and become a desirable candidate in the job market. For instance, volunteering or working with charities can provide you with practical experience and help you develop interpersonal skills.
There's a whole set of invaluable soft skills that you can't acquire from textbooks but are crucial in the professional world. These include communication, leadership, teamwork, planning, and many others.
Consider how your personal journey can highlight other traits that make you a compelling candidate. For example, your eagerness to learn, your empathy, and your positive outlook.
Stay committed to learning, exploring new avenues, and giving your best effort.
Don't let your grades discourage you. There are numerous instances of individuals who have built successful careers without perfect exam scores. Remember, being the ideal candidate for a job can be just as significant as the qualifications you possess.
Drawing from my own journey, there are myriad ways to enhance your skills and become a desirable candidate in the job market. For instance, volunteering or working with charities can provide you with practical experience and help you develop interpersonal skills.
There's a whole set of invaluable soft skills that you can't acquire from textbooks but are crucial in the professional world. These include communication, leadership, teamwork, planning, and many others.
Consider how your personal journey can highlight other traits that make you a compelling candidate. For example, your eagerness to learn, your empathy, and your positive outlook.
Stay committed to learning, exploring new avenues, and giving your best effort.
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Ovesh’s Answer
Facing disappointing grades in university can be disheartening, but it's not the end of your career aspirations. Here are some steps you can take to still pursue a career in data science or software engineering:Focus on Practical Skills: While grades are important, practical skills and hands-on experience often matter more in the tech industry. Focus on building a strong portfolio of projects showcasing your abilities in data science and software engineering. This could include personal projects, contributions to open-source projects, or internships.Gain Experience through Internships or Freelancing: Look for internships or freelance opportunities where you can gain real-world experience. Even if they're not at top-tier companies, these experiences can still be valuable in building your resume and skillset.Networking: Networking can be crucial in the tech industry. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect with professionals in your field. Networking can often lead to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.Continued Learning: Keep learning and improving your skills. Take online courses, attend workshops, and stay updated on the latest developments in data science and software engineering. Consider pursuing certifications in relevant technologies to demonstrate your expertise.Consider Postgraduate Studies: If your grades are holding you back, consider pursuing postgraduate studies to strengthen your academic credentials. This could be a master's degree in a related field or a specialized certification program.Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: When applying for jobs, focus on highlighting your strengths, skills, and relevant experiences in your resume and cover letter. Emphasize any projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your abilities.Stay Persistent and Positive: Rejection is a common part of the job search process, especially in competitive fields like data science and software engineering. Stay persistent, keep applying to opportunities, and maintain a positive attitude. Your determination and passion can go a long way in overcoming academic setbacks.Remember that career success is not solely determined by academic grades. Employers value candidates who demonstrate initiative, problem-solving skills, and a passion for their field. By focusing on building your skills, gaining experience, and networking effectively, you can still achieve your career goals despite academic challenges.
Thank you so much!
Joshua
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Angela’s Answer
Hello Joshua, worrying about the grades is part of being a student. Grades are not the only measurement of success and after you get your diploma, grades will no longer be an issue, It is great that you've acknowledge there is potential and you would like to achieve more. The most important is that you have identified what you would like to work on, so now, i think the next step would be to do some digging into what you like:
what knowledge background is needed, what on site resource groups do you have, often is easier to get to meet same minded people and learn together, assess your skills and get experience and most relevant: don't give up ! Resilience is key nowadays...
what knowledge background is needed, what on site resource groups do you have, often is easier to get to meet same minded people and learn together, assess your skills and get experience and most relevant: don't give up ! Resilience is key nowadays...
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Joseph’s Answer
Been there, keep thinking forward. See what areas you're getting the bad grades. Maybe you're in the wrong subject or career path. I majored in Computer Science and found myself failing Calculus, so I changed my major to Information Systems to avoid taking that class. It's never too late to make changes in college though it may add another year. Remember getting that degree is most important. Once you have that you can decide the path.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Joshua
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John’s Answer
Hi there - i would be tempted to bolster your academic grades with industry recognised credentials. You can do free short and focused courses on Design Thinking, Intro to AI, Data Science for starters - these look great on a cv and really differentiate you from academic peers that dont have them.
IBM Skills Build contain all these and is free and ill post a link to it in the next steps - just register with your academic email address
Register for IBM Skills Build and gain some free industry credentials - https://bit.ly/IntroSBJMcN
IBM Skills Build contain all these and is free and ill post a link to it in the next steps - just register with your academic email address
John recommends the following next steps:
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Jon’s Answer
Hi Joshua,
Great question and I wish you all the best finding the right career route for you.
The first and most important thing to say is that while at this stage your grades will feel the most important thing to opening doors in your career, once you've a few years in industry under your belt it becomes irrelevant, that most recent experience will be your currency and much more important.
A few other thoughts about making the best of this:
- make an honest reflection about what is the cause of your low grades and what you could have done better. Many interviews will ask about overcoming adversity and strategies to deal with things that haven't gone well, this gives you a heavyweight route to answers.
- use that reflection to think about what you really want to do. Are you working towards the right end goal or are you more cut out to change direction? If the latter do the research to find out the best routes available to you, within the resources/budget you have available.
- make sure you have as much to sell yourself outside of your grades, get involved in projects outside of your studies and make yourself the person who is great in a team and helps get results.
Great question and I wish you all the best finding the right career route for you.
The first and most important thing to say is that while at this stage your grades will feel the most important thing to opening doors in your career, once you've a few years in industry under your belt it becomes irrelevant, that most recent experience will be your currency and much more important.
A few other thoughts about making the best of this:
- make an honest reflection about what is the cause of your low grades and what you could have done better. Many interviews will ask about overcoming adversity and strategies to deal with things that haven't gone well, this gives you a heavyweight route to answers.
- use that reflection to think about what you really want to do. Are you working towards the right end goal or are you more cut out to change direction? If the latter do the research to find out the best routes available to you, within the resources/budget you have available.
- make sure you have as much to sell yourself outside of your grades, get involved in projects outside of your studies and make yourself the person who is great in a team and helps get results.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Joshua,
Action Plan:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Standing: Begin by taking a clear-eyed look at your present situation. Pinpoint the reasons why your academic performance didn't meet your expectations. Was it personal circumstances, a disinterest in the subject matter, or difficulty with the course material? Identifying the root of the problem will enable you to tackle it head-on.
Step 2: Pursue Internships: To counterbalance lower grades, consider gaining real-world experience through internships. Many businesses prioritize practical skills and experience over academic grades. Seek out internships in fields like data science or software engineering to enhance your resume and display your capabilities.
Step 3: Embark on Personal Projects: Engage in personal projects in areas like data science or software engineering. A portfolio of projects can exhibit your skills and enthusiasm for the field, making you an attractive candidate to prospective employers. Plus, it gives you a chance to put your learning into practice.
Step 4: Network: Networking is key in the tech world. Participate in industry events, job fairs, and establish connections with professionals on platforms such as LinkedIn. Building relationships within the industry can lead to opportunities that aren't solely dependent on academic accomplishments.
Step 5: Explore Further Education: If your grades are a major hurdle to your career aspirations, think about pursuing further education like a postgraduate degree or specialized certifications. Such qualifications can help balance out lower undergraduate grades.
Step 6: Showcase Relevant Skills: Prioritize showcasing your relevant skills on your resume and during interviews. Highlight any projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your proficiency in data science or software engineering. Employers often value practical skills and experience over academic performance.
Step 7: Consult Career Services: Make the most of the resources offered by your university's career services department. They can offer advice on job hunting strategies, resume crafting, interview preparation, and networking with potential employers. They might also have tips on how to navigate academic hurdles in job hunting.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Response:
1. Harvard Business Review: This resource offers insights into career growth strategies, including how to overcome setbacks and navigate professional challenges.
2. Forbes: Forbes is a trusted source for career guidance and strategies for success in competitive fields like data science and software engineering.
3. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is an excellent platform for connecting with tech industry professionals and accessing resources for career progression, including job opportunities and industry insights.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Action Plan:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Standing: Begin by taking a clear-eyed look at your present situation. Pinpoint the reasons why your academic performance didn't meet your expectations. Was it personal circumstances, a disinterest in the subject matter, or difficulty with the course material? Identifying the root of the problem will enable you to tackle it head-on.
Step 2: Pursue Internships: To counterbalance lower grades, consider gaining real-world experience through internships. Many businesses prioritize practical skills and experience over academic grades. Seek out internships in fields like data science or software engineering to enhance your resume and display your capabilities.
Step 3: Embark on Personal Projects: Engage in personal projects in areas like data science or software engineering. A portfolio of projects can exhibit your skills and enthusiasm for the field, making you an attractive candidate to prospective employers. Plus, it gives you a chance to put your learning into practice.
Step 4: Network: Networking is key in the tech world. Participate in industry events, job fairs, and establish connections with professionals on platforms such as LinkedIn. Building relationships within the industry can lead to opportunities that aren't solely dependent on academic accomplishments.
Step 5: Explore Further Education: If your grades are a major hurdle to your career aspirations, think about pursuing further education like a postgraduate degree or specialized certifications. Such qualifications can help balance out lower undergraduate grades.
Step 6: Showcase Relevant Skills: Prioritize showcasing your relevant skills on your resume and during interviews. Highlight any projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your proficiency in data science or software engineering. Employers often value practical skills and experience over academic performance.
Step 7: Consult Career Services: Make the most of the resources offered by your university's career services department. They can offer advice on job hunting strategies, resume crafting, interview preparation, and networking with potential employers. They might also have tips on how to navigate academic hurdles in job hunting.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Response:
1. Harvard Business Review: This resource offers insights into career growth strategies, including how to overcome setbacks and navigate professional challenges.
2. Forbes: Forbes is a trusted source for career guidance and strategies for success in competitive fields like data science and software engineering.
3. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is an excellent platform for connecting with tech industry professionals and accessing resources for career progression, including job opportunities and industry insights.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.