What Should I Focus on Next in Programming?

Programming is all about crafting software for real users, and it sounds like you've already taken a big step with your game! The best way to get better is to keep creating. Build more projects, whether they're games or other types of software, and get feedback from friends. Focus on making things that actually work instead of just algorithm puzzles. If you're up for it, try diving into game engines like Unity or Unreal. They can be a lot of fun and help you visually develop your ideas. If you want to strengthen your algorithm skills, platforms like leetcode can help, but real-world projects will teach you so much more!

Have you thought about learning C? It’s not the most common language used today, but it’s an excellent way to understand how computers work at a lower level. It helps eliminate many layers of abstraction, giving you a better perspective on programming as a whole.

Check out the curriculum for your university. They might have specific languages they focus on. To get ahead, you could look into resources like MIT's OpenCourseWare, which is high quality and will prepare you well for classes. Even learning a bit in advance can give you a leg up and free up time for internships and research opportunities later on! And don’t forget to keep working on personal projects that pique your interest.

Here's a solid approach: consider diving into some books on key programming concepts. Look into topics like the programming language you want to master, algorithms, software design patterns, and best practices like clean code and refactoring. Some notable titles to check out include 'The Pragmatic Programmer' and 'Introduction to Algorithms'. These resources will give you a great foundation. Remember, it’s important to apply what you learn in practice—pick a project and try to implement the concepts as you go!