I'm a third-year Computer Science major and I've started to feel really overwhelmed as I dive into more complex, CS-heavy classes. Despite having a strong GPA and never getting a bad grade, I feel like I've been cheating myself when it comes to learning. I mainly just study for exams and forget the material afterward. As I search for internships, I'm realizing that I have little to show for my time in college—zero personal projects and a struggle to get into any meaningful work. Online resources talk a lot about how to start, but actually starting seems so daunting. I can't even conquer basic LeetCode challenges anymore. It's like I need to relearn everything from the ground up, including a programming language I once knew well. What can I do to regain my motivation and make real progress?
1 Answer
It sounds like you might be experiencing a bit of impostor syndrome. A lot of people feel like they’re not enough, especially in competitive fields like CS. Remember, you’re not alone—many students feel this way, and it's normal. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own journey. Have you thought about projects that align with your interests? Hands-on work, like building something with Arduino or analyzing datasets, might help you find joy in coding again. Just start small and enjoy the process!
I totally get that approach! I got into CS because I loved problem-solving back in high school, too. But now that I'm in uni, the pressure can be daunting. It's tough not to compare yourself to others. Yet, focusing on your personal growth is the way to go!