How can I break into the tech job market as a computer science student?

These days, anyone can create a full-stack application. What really matters is the context behind it. You should focus on tackling real-world problems, improving existing workflows, or contributing to actual projects. Working on tangible issues shows that you can deal with complexities and collaborate with others, which is what employers are looking for. Aim for realism in your projects!

I once managed operations at a large tech firm, and here's what I learned: it’s crucial to master your coding skills. Many graduates from top universities lack the ability to write clean, effective code. So my advice is to go deep into coding and practice as much as you can. If you're stuck in university classes that aren't serving your career goals, take only the essentials and focus on building your technical expertise. It’s more valuable than just being well-rounded!

I've been in the industry for over a decade, and let me tell you, 'vibe coding' isn't the way to go. It can lead to messy, unmaintainable code, which becomes problematic when things go awry. If you're relying on AI to boost your grades, just remember that your degree might not carry the weight you hope for. Focus on genuinely learning to code the right way—it's worth the investment!

Don't get discouraged about co-ops at uOttawa. Keep applying; even though it's tough, persistence pays off. Remember, the theory you learn in class is mainly to show you can learn new concepts, not necessarily what you'll use on the job. Just make sure to gain practical experience alongside your studies!