I recently graduated with my Bachelor's degree in New Zealand, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and underprepared. Our web development classes focused mostly on HTML and CSS, and we only touched on JavaScript through jQuery. I have basic knowledge of algorithms, like completing the Tower of Hanoi challenge. We used a bit of JavaScript for object-oriented programming, C# for .NET forms, and Python for algorithms. Now, looking at job listings, I see a lot of requirements for technologies I've never worked with, like React, AWS, Node.js, and Azure. While my grades in coding classes are decent (B+ to A+), I struggled with business studies, and my school didn't offer a computer math class. I'm starting to feel like I was set up to fail. Should I consider going back for a postgraduate degree? Are there certifications I should pursue to boost my employability? I'd appreciate any pointers, especially to free certifications that could help expand my skill set. I love programming and want to avoid the path where friends end up in unfulfilling jobs.
4 Answers
Graduates in Computer Science are generally expected to continue learning on their own, so self-learning is key. What to focus on really depends on the area you want to pursue. If web development is your goal, then you should invest time in learning JavaScript and relevant frameworks. While free certifications might seem appealing, practical experience is essential—building a portfolio is what will impress interviewers.
Right now, I’m creating small Python programs to solve everyday problems. I think moving onto a larger project will help sharpen my skills.
Honestly, I’d recommend focusing more on personal projects rather than chasing certifications or further degrees. If you pursue something you're passionate about, you’ll naturally acquire the skills needed to complete it. Once you finish a project, you'll have something to show potential employers that demonstrates your abilities.
I’m in North America, and it seems graduates with a CS degree get prioritized during hiring, but this varies by location. With AI changing the landscape, being able to think critically and show actual coding skills will become increasingly important.
I’m definitely on the lookout for a good project idea. Thanks for the insight!
Grateful for all this advice! It looks like my next step is to find a project idea and learn the skills necessary to bring it to life.
Check out roadmaps.sh—it's an awesome resource! You can select a role you’re interested in, and it’ll provide a structured learning path with resources to help you along the way.
I had no idea this site existed. Thanks for sharing!
Certifications can definitely be helpful if they teach you something useful. Demonstrating knowledge in an interview is crucial, but you also need to showcase your projects to prove your capability. Employers value a candidate's ability to learn and adapt, possibly even more than knowing specific technologies right out of the gate.