I'm feeling really confused about what area of coding I should focus on. I've been dabbling in web development with some HTML and CSS, but I'm also taking courses in data structures and algorithms (DSA) using Java, along with some theoretical concepts in AI & ML and data science since I'm majoring in AI and Data Science. HTML and CSS feel manageable, but DSA is quite tough for me. Lately, I've developed an interest in computer vision, but it just adds to my confusion about which direction to go for a promising career. Can anyone offer some guidance based on their experiences?
5 Answers
Remember, programming is a practical skill, not just theories or quizzes. HTML helps structure web pages and CSS makes them pretty, but there's so much more to explore. Ask yourself what kinds of projects you’re excited about—web apps, games, or even something like embedded systems. You might need more classes or tutorials to figure that out, but that's a normal part of the journey. Keep learning and don’t stress too much!
A practical way to decide is to look at the job market. Right now, web development is leading the pack, but AI and ML are catching up fast. If you want a stable career, backend web development or delving into AI/ML could be a solid bet. However, after spending years in backend development, I can tell you it can become repetitive and less engaging. If you find yourself excited about computer vision or other specialized fields, lean into what you find most interesting—it's ultimately more fulfilling!
Thank you for your advice!
Just a heads up, HTML and CSS aren't actually programming languages, but they’re great starting points to get a grasp of web structures!
Of course, but I'm just trying to convey my point here!
If you're curious about computer vision, try reaching out to professors who do research in that area. It often requires strong math skills, so if that’s your interest, it might be worth looking into. Also, mastering DSA can be beneficial since many tech roles demand knowledge in that area, especially for interviews. So, building a good foundation now could really pay off later!
Thanks for the info! Computer vision sounds exciting, but I’m still torn between webpage design and logical app development.
Since you've learned HTML and CSS, consider building some static web pages to practice. Once you're comfortable, dive into JavaScript to create dynamic websites. This will set a solid foundation for you!
Thanks for the tips! Just to clarify, though, I think you might have misunderstood my original question.
I agree. Learning JavaScript will definitely enhance your pages. After that, check out a framework like React or Angular—it’s a game changer!
I can't pin down exactly what I prefer yet, but I enjoy creating logic for apps while also appreciating good web design. Thanks for your insights!