So, I want to be a software engineer and major in Computer Science. However, people keep telling me that I should have taken AP Computer Science and done more coding related activities like the robotics club and other coding programs. Instead, I have done more bio related stuff like cancer research and took the science research classes. Should I put my intended major as Biology on my common app and switch to Comp. Sci when I go to college, or do I just put Comp. Sci on my intended major? Do I need to know how to code in high school to get a job as a software engineer or is that more of a college thing?
Put the major you actually want to do. Due to the popularity of computer science, some colleges where the department is at full capacity admit frosh to the major; those who enter in some other major may find it very difficult to change into the computer science major.
I agree…apply to the major you want. THey don’t need 30 robotics CS kids…if they have a cancer research CS kid then that kid might want to get involved in writing programs that help analyze cancer research or something.
Have you taken any CS class? DO you know you like it?
Absolutely! I’d explain to the colleges that you want to combine your interest in computer science with your interest in biology. CS is used and needed everywhere.
Strictly speaking, you don’t need to learn how to code in high school, although having an introduction will make college easier. My daughter taught herself Python by checking books out of the library. She is hoping it will make her Computer Science Principles class (that she will start next month) go a little smoother. Give that strategy a try.
Regarding my post above… I don’t mean to imply Python is preferred at CS colleges, only that it’s possible for those with a CS interest to learn quickly and cheaply, and will give you exposure to the coding process.
@bopper Yeah, I took a computer programming class in 9th grade and I learned how to make a simple calculator using C++.