8 answers
Donta
Student
Roeland Park, KS
1
Question
Asked
865 views
What are some tips and advice that i can use as a freshman in college who wants to get into software engineering/Information Technology Specialist?
I'm also interested in trying to land internships for experience. I start my class for programming and operating systems in July this year, I've also been studying IT Fundamentals and Programming languages in my free time.
8 answers
Kateryna Koval
Technical Recruiter
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Kateryna’s Answer
Hello Dona, your enthusiasm is absolutely infectious! A great starting point would be to focus on a handful of programming languages that pique your interest. Spend some time practicing with them to discover which ones you enjoy the most. This will effectively streamline your journey. Once you've identified your top one or two languages, you can use platforms like GitHub to construct your own page as a showcase of your skills.
I would also highly recommend tapping into the resources available at your college, such as the career consulting team. They can help in crafting a compelling resume and offer guidance about internships with their partner companies if they have any.
Don't forget the wealth of opportunities your college offers too. They often host career days and mentorship programs where you can interact with IT professionals. This is a fantastic chance to ask questions and gain deeper insights.
I would also highly recommend tapping into the resources available at your college, such as the career consulting team. They can help in crafting a compelling resume and offer guidance about internships with their partner companies if they have any.
Don't forget the wealth of opportunities your college offers too. They often host career days and mentorship programs where you can interact with IT professionals. This is a fantastic chance to ask questions and gain deeper insights.
Frank Scalia
16
Answers
Updated
Frank’s Answer
Hi Donta,
I am very excited for you. You are beginning a great journey. Here are a few tips for your consideration:
Understand whether you want to specialize in a specific area (e.g., coding, product management, marketing) or take a more generalist approach.
Research various IT roles and career paths available in software engineering and IT.
Showcase your projects, achievements, and technical skills through a well-organized portfolio.
Attend tech conferences, meetups, and workshops to connect with industry professionals.
Technology evolves rapidly, so stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies.
Hope this helps on your journey. IT can be a very rewarding and satisfying career.
I am very excited for you. You are beginning a great journey. Here are a few tips for your consideration:
Understand whether you want to specialize in a specific area (e.g., coding, product management, marketing) or take a more generalist approach.
Research various IT roles and career paths available in software engineering and IT.
Showcase your projects, achievements, and technical skills through a well-organized portfolio.
Attend tech conferences, meetups, and workshops to connect with industry professionals.
Technology evolves rapidly, so stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies.
Hope this helps on your journey. IT can be a very rewarding and satisfying career.
Thank you! I appreciate the advice.
Donta
Joshua Covington
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Hello Donta!
First off, I want to commend you for taking the initiative to ask questions and actively pursue your interests in the industry. That's a great first step! Now, if you haven't already, I would suggest seeking out some senior students at your university to connect with. They can serve as a handy, local resource when you need it and can help guide you through your studies.
Also, consider leveraging LinkedIn to your benefit. There are numerous accomplished engineers out there who are more than happy to share advice about entering the industry and how to keep a step ahead. Engaging with as many industry professionals as possible will provide you with a clearer image of what it takes to break into the industry and what the day-to-day reality is like.
Additionally, consider exploring internship opportunities. There's no substitute for hands-on experience and responsibilities in software development. It provides invaluable insight into daily tasks and what it takes to thrive in the job. Keep on going, you're doing great!
First off, I want to commend you for taking the initiative to ask questions and actively pursue your interests in the industry. That's a great first step! Now, if you haven't already, I would suggest seeking out some senior students at your university to connect with. They can serve as a handy, local resource when you need it and can help guide you through your studies.
Also, consider leveraging LinkedIn to your benefit. There are numerous accomplished engineers out there who are more than happy to share advice about entering the industry and how to keep a step ahead. Engaging with as many industry professionals as possible will provide you with a clearer image of what it takes to break into the industry and what the day-to-day reality is like.
Additionally, consider exploring internship opportunities. There's no substitute for hands-on experience and responsibilities in software development. It provides invaluable insight into daily tasks and what it takes to thrive in the job. Keep on going, you're doing great!
Suleka Bhaskar,PMP®, CSM
Data Management Lead
5
Answers
Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Updated
Suleka’s Answer
It's fantastic to know that you're eager to kick-start your career. Here are some actionable steps you can take:
1. Attend career fairs: Many colleges host these events, providing an excellent opportunity to explore potential career paths.
2. Enroll in programming courses: Fit these into your regular schedule or consider online options. This will help you build a solid foundation in tech.
3. Volunteer and intern: Apply for tech-related volunteer work and internships, even within your college. This will give you practical experience and boost your resume.
4. Join tech clubs: This is a great way to expand your network and learn from others who share your passion.
Remember, every step you take is a step closer to your dream career. Keep going!
1. Attend career fairs: Many colleges host these events, providing an excellent opportunity to explore potential career paths.
2. Enroll in programming courses: Fit these into your regular schedule or consider online options. This will help you build a solid foundation in tech.
3. Volunteer and intern: Apply for tech-related volunteer work and internships, even within your college. This will give you practical experience and boost your resume.
4. Join tech clubs: This is a great way to expand your network and learn from others who share your passion.
Remember, every step you take is a step closer to your dream career. Keep going!
Michele Lofchie
Senior Solution Consultant
6
Answers
Rockford, Illinois
Updated
Michele’s Answer
As a Senior Solution Consultant at Salesforce, I am constantly adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of Information Technology. My primary method of staying updated with new technologies and top-notch practices is by utilizing Salesforce's Trailhead modules. These modules are free-of-charge courses accessible to everyone, offering an engaging learning atmosphere where progress is tracked through a point system. This innovative learning approach has empowered me to grasp Artificial Intelligence, a skill that is increasingly becoming indispensable for the future.
I encourage you to enroll (free) in Trailhead and start taking some modules. There are modules in technology as well as soft-skills. Check it out... https://trailhead.salesforce.com. Who knows, maybe it will land you a job to work here.
Michele recommends the following next steps:
Jeana Wertz
Information Technology Specialist
2
Answers
Shingle Springs, California
Updated
Jeana’s Answer
Hey there,
Starting college as a freshman with a clear goal in mind is fantastic—kudos to you for having that drive! I lean toward cybersecurity since that is my passion but I have some perspective on this as a system administrator for over 8 years. Here are some tips and advice to help you get into software engineering and IT, along with landing those valuable internships:
### Tips for Getting Started
1. **Get Hands-On Early**: Dive into personal projects. Whether it’s building a simple website, creating a small app, or scripting automation tasks, these projects will help you apply what you're learning in class and build a portfolio.
2. **Join Clubs and Communities**: Look for student organizations or clubs focused on software development and IT. Being part of a community can provide support, resources, and opportunities to work on collaborative projects.
3. **Utilize Online Resources**: Continue leveraging online courses and platforms like Codecademy, Coursera, and Udemy. These can help reinforce your understanding and introduce you to new concepts at your own pace.
4. **Attend Hackathons and Workshops**: Participating in hackathons is an excellent way to challenge yourself, meet peers, and sometimes even connect with potential employers. Workshops can also offer deeper dives into specific technologies. Lookup Cyber Skyline and Hack Me.
5. **Network Actively**: Don’t be shy about reaching out to upperclassmen, professors, and industry professionals. Platforms like LinkedIn can be invaluable for making connections. Remember, the tech community is often very welcoming and willing to help newcomers. Even Facebook groups can be helpful.
### Landing Internships
1. **Start Early**: Begin looking for internships as soon as possible. Many companies offer internships year-round, not just in the summer. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can be great places to start your search.
2. **Craft a Strong Resume**: Highlight your skills and any relevant projects, even if they’re personal or coursework-related. Tailor your resume to each position you apply for, emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the job.
3. **Leverage Career Services**: Your college's career services can be a goldmine for finding internships. They often have partnerships with companies looking specifically for students from your school.
4. **Prepare for Interviews**: Practice common interview questions, especially technical ones. Websites like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Cracking the Coding Interview can help you prepare for technical interviews.
5. **Show Enthusiasm and Willingness to Learn**: Employers look for candidates who are passionate and eager to learn. Highlight your curiosity and commitment to growth during interviews.
### Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars
- **Time Management**: College can get overwhelming, so managing your time effectively is crucial. Use tools like planners or digital apps to keep track of assignments, projects, and deadlines.
- **Self-Care**: Don't forget to take care of yourself. Regular breaks, exercise, and socializing can do wonders for your mental health and productivity.
You’re already on a great path by studying IT Fundamentals and programming languages in your spare time. Keep that momentum going, and you’ll find yourself well-prepared for a successful career in software engineering or IT.
If you ever need more advice or have specific questions, feel free to reach out. Best of luck with your studies and future internships!
Starting college as a freshman with a clear goal in mind is fantastic—kudos to you for having that drive! I lean toward cybersecurity since that is my passion but I have some perspective on this as a system administrator for over 8 years. Here are some tips and advice to help you get into software engineering and IT, along with landing those valuable internships:
### Tips for Getting Started
1. **Get Hands-On Early**: Dive into personal projects. Whether it’s building a simple website, creating a small app, or scripting automation tasks, these projects will help you apply what you're learning in class and build a portfolio.
2. **Join Clubs and Communities**: Look for student organizations or clubs focused on software development and IT. Being part of a community can provide support, resources, and opportunities to work on collaborative projects.
3. **Utilize Online Resources**: Continue leveraging online courses and platforms like Codecademy, Coursera, and Udemy. These can help reinforce your understanding and introduce you to new concepts at your own pace.
4. **Attend Hackathons and Workshops**: Participating in hackathons is an excellent way to challenge yourself, meet peers, and sometimes even connect with potential employers. Workshops can also offer deeper dives into specific technologies. Lookup Cyber Skyline and Hack Me.
5. **Network Actively**: Don’t be shy about reaching out to upperclassmen, professors, and industry professionals. Platforms like LinkedIn can be invaluable for making connections. Remember, the tech community is often very welcoming and willing to help newcomers. Even Facebook groups can be helpful.
### Landing Internships
1. **Start Early**: Begin looking for internships as soon as possible. Many companies offer internships year-round, not just in the summer. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can be great places to start your search.
2. **Craft a Strong Resume**: Highlight your skills and any relevant projects, even if they’re personal or coursework-related. Tailor your resume to each position you apply for, emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the job.
3. **Leverage Career Services**: Your college's career services can be a goldmine for finding internships. They often have partnerships with companies looking specifically for students from your school.
4. **Prepare for Interviews**: Practice common interview questions, especially technical ones. Websites like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Cracking the Coding Interview can help you prepare for technical interviews.
5. **Show Enthusiasm and Willingness to Learn**: Employers look for candidates who are passionate and eager to learn. Highlight your curiosity and commitment to growth during interviews.
### Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars
- **Time Management**: College can get overwhelming, so managing your time effectively is crucial. Use tools like planners or digital apps to keep track of assignments, projects, and deadlines.
- **Self-Care**: Don't forget to take care of yourself. Regular breaks, exercise, and socializing can do wonders for your mental health and productivity.
You’re already on a great path by studying IT Fundamentals and programming languages in your spare time. Keep that momentum going, and you’ll find yourself well-prepared for a successful career in software engineering or IT.
If you ever need more advice or have specific questions, feel free to reach out. Best of luck with your studies and future internships!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Donta,
It’s great that you’re already taking initiative and preparing for your software engineering/IT Specialist journey! Here’s a comprehensive guide with tips and advice to help you succeed as a freshman:
1. Academic Foundation:
Master the Fundamentals: Your programming and operating systems class will be crucial. Focus on understanding the core concepts, not just memorizing syntax. Practice consistently, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Explore Different Languages: While you’re studying, explore various programming languages. Python is a great starting point due to its readability and versatility, but consider learning Java, C++, or JavaScript for different applications.
Data Structures and Algorithms: These are essential building blocks for efficient software development. Start learning them early on, even if your classes don’t cover them yet. Online resources like Khan Academy and Coursera offer excellent courses.
Computer Science Theory: Understanding concepts like computer architecture, networking, and databases will provide a solid foundation for your career.
2. Building Your Skills:
Practice, Practice, Practice: The best way to learn is by doing. Work on personal projects, contribute to open-source projects, or participate in coding challenges.
Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills by creating projects that demonstrate your abilities. This could include websites, mobile apps, or even simple command-line tools.
Learn Version Control: Git is the industry standard for managing code. Master it early on to collaborate effectively and track your progress.
Stay Updated: The tech world is constantly evolving. Subscribe to industry blogs, follow tech influencers on social media, and attend workshops or conferences to stay informed about new technologies and trends.
3. Internship Opportunities:
Start Early: Don’t wait until your junior year to start looking for internships. Many companies offer internships for freshmen, especially those focused on early career development.
Network: Attend career fairs, connect with alumni, and reach out to professionals in your field. Networking can open doors to opportunities you might not find online.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills and projects that align with the internship requirements. Use keywords from the job description to make your resume stand out.
Practice Interviewing: Prepare for common interview questions, including behavioral questions, technical questions, and coding challenges. Online platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank offer practice problems.
4. Additional Tips:
Join Student Organizations: Connect with other students interested in software engineering and IT. Student organizations often host workshops, hackathons, and networking events.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can guide you through your journey. This could be a professor, a senior student, or a professional in the field.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your professors, classmates, and online communities are valuable resources.
Stay Persistent: Learning software engineering takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you face challenges. Stay persistent, and you’ll eventually achieve your goals.
Remember: Your journey as a software engineer or IT Specialist is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on building a strong foundation, developing your skills, and networking with others in the field. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals and make a successful career in this exciting industry.
God Bless,
JC.
It’s great that you’re already taking initiative and preparing for your software engineering/IT Specialist journey! Here’s a comprehensive guide with tips and advice to help you succeed as a freshman:
1. Academic Foundation:
Master the Fundamentals: Your programming and operating systems class will be crucial. Focus on understanding the core concepts, not just memorizing syntax. Practice consistently, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Explore Different Languages: While you’re studying, explore various programming languages. Python is a great starting point due to its readability and versatility, but consider learning Java, C++, or JavaScript for different applications.
Data Structures and Algorithms: These are essential building blocks for efficient software development. Start learning them early on, even if your classes don’t cover them yet. Online resources like Khan Academy and Coursera offer excellent courses.
Computer Science Theory: Understanding concepts like computer architecture, networking, and databases will provide a solid foundation for your career.
2. Building Your Skills:
Practice, Practice, Practice: The best way to learn is by doing. Work on personal projects, contribute to open-source projects, or participate in coding challenges.
Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills by creating projects that demonstrate your abilities. This could include websites, mobile apps, or even simple command-line tools.
Learn Version Control: Git is the industry standard for managing code. Master it early on to collaborate effectively and track your progress.
Stay Updated: The tech world is constantly evolving. Subscribe to industry blogs, follow tech influencers on social media, and attend workshops or conferences to stay informed about new technologies and trends.
3. Internship Opportunities:
Start Early: Don’t wait until your junior year to start looking for internships. Many companies offer internships for freshmen, especially those focused on early career development.
Network: Attend career fairs, connect with alumni, and reach out to professionals in your field. Networking can open doors to opportunities you might not find online.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills and projects that align with the internship requirements. Use keywords from the job description to make your resume stand out.
Practice Interviewing: Prepare for common interview questions, including behavioral questions, technical questions, and coding challenges. Online platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank offer practice problems.
4. Additional Tips:
Join Student Organizations: Connect with other students interested in software engineering and IT. Student organizations often host workshops, hackathons, and networking events.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can guide you through your journey. This could be a professor, a senior student, or a professional in the field.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your professors, classmates, and online communities are valuable resources.
Stay Persistent: Learning software engineering takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you face challenges. Stay persistent, and you’ll eventually achieve your goals.
Remember: Your journey as a software engineer or IT Specialist is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on building a strong foundation, developing your skills, and networking with others in the field. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals and make a successful career in this exciting industry.
God Bless,
JC.
Ishaan SAHNI
Software Engineer 1
8
Answers
New Delhi, Delhi, India
Updated
Ishaan’s Answer
Hey there,
Being a software engineer for the past 3 years I think I can answer this question.
During your college years try to find out what area or field you like the most in in IT Industry, it can be Data Analysis, Web or App development, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Once you have decided that, try to look out for any projects or internships you can take while studying in college or in your summer breaks. This will add to your experience as well and will help you find your full time job.
I must say, networking is key: Try to reach out to people on Linkedin, people who are currently working in the field in which you have interest. You;ll get to know what their day to day looks like and plentiful insights of the job which can help you make more informed decision.
Stay focused and approach things strategically.
All the best !
Being a software engineer for the past 3 years I think I can answer this question.
During your college years try to find out what area or field you like the most in in IT Industry, it can be Data Analysis, Web or App development, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Once you have decided that, try to look out for any projects or internships you can take while studying in college or in your summer breaks. This will add to your experience as well and will help you find your full time job.
I must say, networking is key: Try to reach out to people on Linkedin, people who are currently working in the field in which you have interest. You;ll get to know what their day to day looks like and plentiful insights of the job which can help you make more informed decision.
Stay focused and approach things strategically.
All the best !
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