<p>This summer I plan on taking online classes to advance credits in my school (I am taking Economics and Government to make space for AP Comp Sci) and taking a C++ programming course at my local university. </p>
<p>While I signed up for these out of interest, I was wondering how they would look to colleges.</p>
<p>I also plan to self-learning Python, but I do not know if I can really prove that on my transcript (but I don't really care if I can't).</p>
<p>The classes would look ok, but it depends on what you want to do in college. Taking courses similar to your interest in college would be more appealing to colleges, so make sure to do that. Also, if you already have a high GPA you can diversify a little bit. Maybe do some community service or something like that to show that you are well rounded</p>
<p>Yeah I do want to CS in college so I am okay with that. It’s really hard for me to want to do volunteering, but I will try my best.</p>
<p>It would tell colleges that you took those classes. I’m not sure what else you’re looking for–it’s not going to tell them how good you are at any of them, which leads to my next comment.</p>
<p>Certainly learn Python; it’s a useful language. But if you want to major in computer science, make sure you know a bit about Java (AP CS should cover that), JavaScript, HTML/CSS, etc., and then do something with that knowledge. For example, I self-taught myself HTML, CSS, and with a little jQuery magic, designed a website for a school club that ended up winning an award. While you can’t prove your knowledge of Python, if you learn it, you can do something with it, and prove that. I know of several teenagers who are currently running web design start-ups–and they’re still in high school. If you are committed to learning and applying your knowledge, you can use that to your advantage.</p>
<p>And regarding volunteering, see if any computer-oriented spots are open in your area. I’m looking at a couple in my town.</p>
<p>All right, I’ll definitely look into what I apply my knowledge on/volunteering with computers. Thanks a lot!</p>