I recently had a scholar reach out to me with some insightful questions and I thought this would be a great place to share my answers.
Why applied computing vs computer science?
The honest answer to this is opportunity, TRAin presented itself and applied computing was the only tech major it offered so I ran with it. Having zero experience, I figure what a better way to test out a major than with research and hefty scholarship to lighten my load. It was scary but I think the environment at PC made me feel like I could do it.
What computer classes did you take at PC that transferred to ASU for your major?
While at PC I took CSC110 - intro to programing, CSC205 - object oriented programing, CSC240 - intro to other programing languages. While I was at PC these classes were brand new to campus, in fact I had to delay graduating to be sure I took them all before transferring in accordance with my MAPP. I could have taken them elsewhere but waited for PC to get them. I advise you to take them else where. I do not feel that I received an adequate or strong foundation from these classes. All of the courses were late start which I advise against taking any programming course in a condensed form unless you have prior developed skills.
In what way are the applied computing classes challenging?
* big sigh * For me, these are the hardest classes I have ever had to take. I truly enjoy math, and biology, psych, and humanities come easy to me but coding is something that my brain seems to have a hard time grasping. I have taken three classes and now really get the theory but my implementation is still poor. Writing good clean and logical code still eludes me. I am taking an online course to supplement my classes and horrible foundation. There was no tutoring at PC and sadly no tutoring at ASU as well. As hard as coding has been I have not wanted to give up, I think the fact that it is the first thing to really shake me makes me want to master it even more. It is extremely challenging but it can be done.
I'm taking discrete math next semester, any advice/good resources?
Discrete math is fundamental for programing, I actually enjoyed the class but it can be confusing. My advice would be to work with classmates if you can to study. Reach out to the professor if you are struggling. If you are taking it with Joe at PC, you will be just fine. He offers plenty of extra credit and its all relevant, so you never have busy work. If you still want extra help, I relied largely on youtube for that extra clarity.
What type of computer/laptop setup do you have? Do you need a 13 or 16 inch laptop?
I have never been told what kind of hardware I needed for any of my classes. What you really want is a computer with enough space and speed. Size is really up to you after that. I currently use an iMac 27 in base model and it does the job, I also use a 16 inch HP Pavillion that was like $400 used off amazon that does well too. I am not super techy so when looking for a new laptop I always search google for "Best laptops for programers" then I just compare models from various lists for what I really need and what I can afford. If anyone has better or more sound advice please chime in!
Why did you do biology project for TRAin instead of computer projects?
When I first started TRAin, I was of course not very familiar with coding so it made sense for me to jump into something I knew. I was also invited to work with the amazing Dr. Cotter so I jumped at that chance. I think it was definitely right for me at the time. I could have benefited greatly from joining a computing based project but to be completely honest there was not many options at the time. I think there was one person I could have worked with at PC, but they really had no 'project' going. I decided to conduct all my research at PC for ease but I could have done more offsite. I did get to work on an app based project but I was unable to get major results from that. In hind sight I should have gone offsite for more experience in my major but I am happy with the amazing experience that I did receive at PC.
Why did you decide to do ASU Barrett?
The biggest reason I decided to do Barrett is because I didn't have to pay for it. If I had to pay out of pocket I can promise you I would not do it based on the cost alone. If you can afford it, I recommend it. I will say that the fact that there is a thesis or project made the decision easy for me considering I am in TRAin and the TRAin project could count as my Barrett project so I technically have no extra work and I still get to graduate with honors. I am most likely going for my PhD so I felt that it could be a great experience to complete a thesis as an undergrad. Also Barrett does offer wonderful courses and they have perks like Barrett only lounges and stores, and you can get $1000 in funding for your thesis or project so in a sense you get some of your tuition back.
These were great questions and if I didn't answer them fully please reach out. If anyone else has any questions do not hesitate to ask. :)
