What internship role should I aim for in computer science?

Going for a software engineer or developer position is a solid choice. It provides a strong foundation, and unless you already have a specific field in mind, it’s probably the best path to take.

Think about the industries in the area you want to work in and what you’re passionate about in computer science. Also, it’s worth reflecting on why you’re struggling in your courses—maybe focusing on improving your grades could help. I’m aiming for a career in computer-aided manufacturing myself.

If you’re in the US, consider looking into internships through programs like the Department of Energy's. I landed two programming internships that way, and it was a fantastic experience because it gave me exposure to national labs. You'll work on cool projects and have a chance to network with interesting professionals.

I recommend starting a personal project in your free time. It’s a great way to stay motivated, and it can even lead to something you could monetize. If that seems like too much, just begin by building a GitHub portfolio—upload any little scripts you've worked on, like formatting text or creating simple command line tools. You can even try making a Discord bot! Mentioning your GitHub on your resume will show you're proactive and into open source development.