Now that you know you are interested in Computer Science (maybe even AI), what should you do next?
Get Involved With Clubs
Although applicable for a variety of fields, joining clubs in your school provides you with a community of like minded individuals and structured activities to learn and grow from. They are very readily accessible and manageable. There are many different clubs relevant to Computer Science, such as a coding club (Code Club, Girls Who Code) or a robotics club (FRC, VEX). Oftentimes activities in these clubs will have intertwining concepts relating to AI, sometimes even having entire events dedicated to it. Joining clubs also opens up the opportunity to get leadership positions, usually happening in your upperclassmen years once you have shown substantial involvement. Alternatively, if no such clubs exist, you might consider starting your own club. It’s a great way to show initiative and dedication.
Take Some Classes at School
Due to the quickly rising popularity and increasing demand for strong computer scientists, there are many different options in the field. Schools with growing STEM programs can include courses such as Web Design, Game Design, and an overall introduction to Computer Science. There are also two Advanced Placement courses offered by the College Board (AP Computer Science Principles & AP Computer Science Advance). Whether you are a beginner just starting out or have some projects underway, I would highly recommend exploring these courses. It’s good to get some of the fundamentals of logic and coding down before you start to tackle AI.
What Languages Should I Learn First?
Python
C
Javascript
Delve Even Deeper
Once you do get the basics settled down, that’s where online classes and summer programs start to come into play. They are great ways to learn about certain topics in great depth and escape the confinements of the framed school curriculum. Platforms like Cousera and edX offer a whole range of courses from prestigious universities/companies and experts with years of experience.
Some Course Recommendations (specifically for AI):
AI for Everyone – Andrew Ng (Coursera)
Data Science and Machine Learning Essentials – Microsoft (edX)
Learn with Google AI
Machine Learning by Stanford or Columbia (edX)
Take Advantage Of Your Summers
Enrolling in a summer program is a great way to launch your academic and career readiness in computer science. Although all require applicants to have a strong background and passion for STEM, options as to how much prior knowledge and experience is required. Attending such programs not only provides students with heightened academic preparation and personal enrichment, but also demonstrates commitment to CS and the ability to handle significant responsibility and challenges. Many are free but very competitive to get accepted into, even so, with strong determination and leadership the sky's the limit.
Here Are Some Great Programs:
Girls Who Code Immersion
AI4ALL
Google in Education Computer Science Summer Institute
Minority Introduction to Science and Engineering (MITES) @ MIT
Research Science Institute (RSI)
Pre College/STEM Programs Offered At Various Prestigious Universities
And so much more....
But Wait...Where’s The Competition?
Because STEM (and CS) has such a diverse impact on the world and is so vital in our everyday lives, many organizations, businesses, and governments are providing incentives for young people to pursue it. Even if you don’t have much experience, participating in competitions can help you develop necessary skills that will be useful in your academic career and beyond. Not only do you get the chance to meet others from around the world, but doors of opportunities that were once hidden finally uncover themselves.
Some Cool Competitions:
MIT THINK Scholars Program
USA Computing Olympiad (USACO)
ExploraVision Awards Program
Congressional App Challenge (CAC
Microsoft Imagine Cup
Comments