I'm planning to use my military GI bill when I transition out in 2027, and I'm really interested in the AI field. However, I don't have much tech experience. I want to know if going to college would be a good way for someone like me to start learning programming languages like Python and Java, and if it would help me gain enough knowledge to be competent and competitive in the tech industry.
2 Answers
While college introduces you to the basics of Computer Science and ends with a degree, many graduates struggle to build anything complex right out of school. You might spend the first couple of years on general courses before you even start coding. If you're motivated, you could learn a lot faster through online tutorials or coding bootcamps. Some places like MIT or Cal Poly are exceptions with hands-on experiences, but for most, college isn't the quickest route to skill mastery.
College can definitely help if you're looking to earn a degree, which many companies still value when hiring. However, it's not the only way to learn to code. There are tons of online resources available where you can teach yourself programming. If you really want that degree, then college is a solid path, but consider how you learn best before committing.
I agree! A degree can show you're committed to the field, but there's also a lot you can learn outside of a classroom. Plus, college can feel like a long journey before you even start coding practically.
Thanks for the insight! I'm actually considering Cal Poly. Do you have any recommendations for good coding resources to start learning now while I prepare for college?