HELP ASAP: L&S Computer Science Schedule/Classes (CS 61a, Math 54, EE16A??)

[bearlover07]

Hello all,

So I’m currently an incoming freshman going into Cal, for L&S Comp-Sci, and I’m torn between what I should take for the fall.

For those that don’t know, I need a 3.3 average in CS61A, CS61B, CS70 to declare CS as my major.

However, I have NO programming experience. The highest math I’ve taken is Calculus BC in high school (got a 5). But I plan on learning python over summer (any recommendations???).

It was just announced that for Math you are required to take either Math 54 or EE16A, and then EE16B. I cannot take EE16A without taking CS61A.

So here is my question: Should I take CS61A with EE16A in the fall, or Math 54 with CS8 (An introductory CS Data course) with Math 54? Or CS61A with Math 54? I really don’t want to rush into CS61A and do poorly and be unable to declare CS, but at the same time I do not want to be wasting my time in CS 8, or hurting myself in the long run. Also, I would much rather take EE16A+EE16B versus Math 54+EE16B (prof recommends it).

I would probably take these courses with one other easy breadth.

ALL ADVICE IS APPRECIATED.

Thanks and GO BEARS!

[syrianxo]

There are a lot of L&S Breadth as well as electives that are required for the B.A. I would suggest filling your schedule with those and taking CS61A + EE16A. This summer try taking a programming class at a local community college so you can become familiar with the basics. Once you learn one, you can learn all. In my opinion, Python isn’t the greatest language to start with because its fairly easy. I would focus on an OOP language such as Java or C++ (plus these are expected by Berkeley). Java was my first language, so I would highly recommend learning that because it sets a good foundation. Once you learn Java/C++, you’ll understand why Python is easier.

The nice thing is your’re already ahead, so you can lighten your load that first semester and be able to focus hard on CS61A. Wish you luck!