I'm about to start my university journey in a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) program at a budget-friendly university that may not have the best reputation. I want to enhance my education with online resources and practical skills that will prepare me for a successful career. I'm really interested in how computers work at a low level (but not too low, like transistors), and my goal is to find a remote job or potentially move abroad for better opportunities since my local job market has limited, well-paying positions. It seems like roles in C++ and embedded system design might not lead to as many remote opportunities as web development would.
I have ADHD, which makes me curious about many topics, so I need help figuring out which area of Computer Science I should focus on while still acquiring useful skills. I'm currently working through resources like CS50x, TeachYourselfCS, OSSU, and exploring various online courses. Although I've built a strong foundational knowledge in C++ and have basic exposure to JavaScript and Python, I'm unsure how to leverage my time now without waiting for my degree to finish.
What learning paths or resources should I pursue to cover a broad range of skills that will be applicable to software engineering? I want to feel prepared for a tech career but am looking for guidance to avoid becoming too scattered in my learning.
3 Answers
I totally get that planning your career can feel a bit overwhelming, especially before starting classes. You're right to consider that your CS degree can open many doors, but gaining practical skills alongside your education is smart. Focus on developing a strong self-learning approach—like tackling projects that challenge you, working with databases, using APIs, and practicing testing. Stick with one language for a while to build a solid foundation, then diversify as you go.
Don't write off C++ for remote opportunities! It could connect to work in fields like gaming or systems programming. Your strategy of combining a traditional CS degree with online learning is smart—it gives you both the theoretical backing and practical skills. Completing CS50 first makes sense since you’re already invested in it. Then, dive into deeper topics with resources from TeachYourselfCS; it should balance your degree nicely.
Choosing to focus on web development could be beneficial for remote work opportunities. It's a common misconception that C++ isn't viable for remote jobs; while it's true that web development offers more options, there are still remote positions in other fields like fintech and gaming. You should check out resources like TeachYourselfCS alongside CS50 to broaden your understanding. JavaScript, for example, is hugely versatile and usable across many domains, such as backend with Node.js and even mobile development. It’s worth investing time in learning it deeply.
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