I'm a complete beginner in coding and programming, and I'm about to start college in two months. After a tough time as a dropper, I really want to get a fresh start academically. I need advice on which programming languages to learn and any prerequisites I should focus on to excel in aerospace engineering in the future. Any help would be appreciated!
5 Answers
I suggest starting with programming and computer science principles first. Python is user-friendly, and depending on your college's curriculum, you might need to learn other languages like C++. Also, get some tutorial books or courses to guide you ahead of time. I worked in aerospace programming and found that knowing the basic concepts is crucial.
Starting with Python is a great idea since it's so easy to learn and has a simple syntax. You could even check out the Udemy course 'Python for Beginners' by Dr. Angela Yu—it's highly recommended for newcomers!
Thanks a lot for the recommendation!
For engineering, especially aerospace, I'd recommend starting with C and C++. They're foundational languages that will help you understand how coding works and form a solid basis for future learning. Also, don’t overlook Python; it's great for beginners and widely used in various fields. You might want to build some small projects on the side to gain practical experience.
Are there any prerequisites I should focus on since I'm starting from scratch?
It's important to focus on developing a growth mindset rather than labeling yourself as a failure. College can be tough, and self-doubt can hinder your performance. Consider checking out Barbara Oakley's *Learn How to Learn* on Coursera. It can really reshape the way you think about learning, which is just as important as the technical skills you'll acquire.
I've labeled myself a failure for too long. I really want to change that mindset and do better this time around.
Python is a fantastic starting point for coding, and it has a simple syntax that makes it easy to grasp. Besides that, I suggest engaging with some fun coding games like Human Resource Machine and TIS-100. They'll help you think like a programmer while solving puzzles. You don’t really need any specific prerequisites; just jump in and start learning!
Do I need any prior knowledge before tackling these languages?
Got it. That makes a lot of sense, thanks!