Why I Chose Computer Science (and How you can too)

“Coding Programming” by Ilya Pavlov/ CC0 1.0

Technology has always been a part of my life, but my passion for it began with my grandparents. Whether they had trouble with their TV, phone, or tablet, I was the one they called on for help. Teaching my grandparents how to use these devices gave me the opportunity to bond with them that other activities didn’t allow me to do. Because they constantly asked me to help them FaceTime their friends, add new contacts, and download games, I was constantly around to teach them. I witnessed firsthand how technology could connect generations, making life easier and bringing families closer together.

While my interest in technology began in these moments, my love for computer science started during my first computer science class, Computer Programming Essentials. In this course, I learned the fundamentals of JavaScript through an interactive platform called CodeHS. Offering video lessons followed by challenges and assignments, CodeHS provided a way for me to apply what I had learned as a beginner. Each unit ended with a quiz to reinforce the concepts, but the real magic was in the coding itself (CodeHS).

JavaScript clicked for me right away. I was fascinated by how the bits of code that I wrote would come together to perform functions. I found the problem-solving aspect the most exciting part. Each assignment required us to write code that would solve a problem stated in the prompt. Every lesson built off the rest so that by the end I was writing lines of code similar to how I would write an essay. This was the moment I realized that coding is a language and it can be such a powerful tool. By the end of the course, I was in love with coding and wanted to learn more about computer science.

Since that first class, I’ve participated in various programs and courses, all of which I will share in future blog posts. What excites me the most about computer science is its versatility and potential. Whether you’re building a website or designing a game, there is a niche for everyone. Computer science is not just a field of study; it’s a tool that touches nearly every aspect of our world. Its applications span industries including healthcare, education, and entertainment. The possibilities are endless.

Beyond its practical uses, computer science is a powerful tool for innovation and social good. It drives technological advances that solve global problems. This includes developing algorithms to combat climate change, using AI to improve medical diagnoses, or creating apps that make education accessible to more people. On the other hand, the rapid growth of technology also brings challenges. Issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the environmental impact of large-scale computing remind us that we must use technology responsibly. Computer science is as much about ethics as it is about innovation.

Personally, I haven’t settled on a specific career in computer science yet, and that’s what makes this journey so exciting. The field is so broad that I can explore many niches and discover what I’m truly passionate about. Right now, I’m enjoying diving into web design, but I’m keeping my options open for the future.

One of my long-term goals is to use my skills to help others. Just as I shared technology with my grandparents, I hope to enable elderly individuals in care facilities to navigate their devices confidently. Technology can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and I want to be part of that impact.

Advice for Beginners in Computer Science

If you’re new to computer science and wondering where to start, here’s my advice:

1. Start Small: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Pick one area to focus on (whether it’s coding, web design, or robotics) and master the basics.
2. Take Advantage of Resources: Look for courses, tools, or programs at your school or online. Platforms like CodeHS or Codecademy are great for beginners (CodeHS) (Codeacademy).
3. Practice Problem-Solving: Try challenges or projects that encourage you to apply what you’ve learned. Debugging and troubleshooting are essential skills to develop.
4. Be Patient: It’s okay to feel frustrated when your code doesn’t work. Persistence is key, and every mistake is an opportunity to learn.
5. Explore Broadly: Computer science is incredibly diverse. Don’t be afraid to try new areas until you find what excites you the most.

Whether you’re curious about coding, fascinated by emerging technologies, or inspired to solve real-world problems, computer science has something for everyone. The journey is challenging but rewarding, and I can’t wait to see where it leads!