I'm 19 and studying Computer Science at York University. My goal is to land a software engineering or backend systems internship in Summer or Fall 2027. I have no courses this semester, and next semester I'll be taking Advanced Object-Oriented Programming in Java and Discrete Mathematics. I'm planning to take Data Structures and Algorithms during the summer.
Over the next 8–12 months, I'm hoping to spend October improving my Java and SQL skills, then use November and December to build a substantial project. I'm looking for advice on how to structure my preparation, what skills I should prioritize, and what kinds of projects or activities would make my resume more competitive.
4 Answers
A large project can help your resume, but it won’t replace fundamentals. Learn Java deeply enough to understand object-oriented design, practice SQL, and start self-teaching DSA before the course begins. Work through problems regularly and gradually increase the difficulty. Your goal should be to show steady progress rather than trying to master everything in a single month.
Don’t feel pressured to build one enormous project right away. Two polished, complete projects are usually better than one unfinished ambitious idea. For example, build a CRUD application with a real database, then make another project that consumes an external API. Focus on clean code, testing, documentation, and being able to explain the architecture and tradeoffs.
Practice consistently instead of relying only on coursework. Even a small amount of programming each day adds up. It can also help to think about which industries interest you—finance, healthcare, sales, and so on—and build a few smaller projects related to those areas. That gives you a portfolio you can actually discuss during interviews.
Java and SQL are a good combination, but I’d move Data Structures and Algorithms higher on your priority list if possible. Interview preparation matters a lot for getting through technical screens. You should also attend career fairs and try to make genuine connections, since networking can help you get the initial interview. Once you have that opportunity, strong DSA fundamentals and being able to explain your decisions will matter.
That makes sense. I was probably focusing too much on making one impressive project instead of building a few things I can finish and explain properly.