Thread: How hard is CS?
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Old 09-23-2003, 12:26 AM   #19 (permalink)
MichaelFarker
2+2=5? Not again!
 
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Location: Dallas, Texas
I have a bs in computer science from Texas Tech University.

Getting the degree is not easy. You have to put more time into homework than people do for most majors.
It is harder during the first year than it is later on. They aren't kidding when they call them "weed-out" courses. Don't give up. Grades tend to turn out better than you expect.
Exchange phone numbers and help people when you can. You never know when you'll get stuck during debugging. A fresh set of eyes are priceless when a deadline looms.
Make sure your professors and TA's know who you are. Participate in lectures and always visit during office hours and you will have a hard time failing. Ask specific questions about programming assignments that show you have read the book and listened during the lectures. Especially during later courses, they give great hints if you are obviously working hard.


Getting the degree is easier than getting a job with the degree.

Find internships, whatever it takes. Those are only a handful of entry level jobs once you graduate and they all go to people with experience and connections.

Make connections. Show up early, join a fraternity, befriend your professors, participate in organizations, attend guest and thesis lectures. I know it's college, and it's a time to be free and have fun. Just remember the goal is having a great career.


It sounds like you've made a good start. I believe UT is an exceptional university. I hope you do well.
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