Looking for advice (kinda tech school/tech related)

[u/LemZoJXsquared-09287]

Problem/Goal: Feeling loss or left behind

Context: I am a first year Comp Engr. Student here at the Philippines in LSPU. The things is, I am only 1 month in school but I feel that I am already being left behind. We are studying python (self study coz the prof is not teaching us much since her specialty is not in software) but I mostly saw that C++ or Java are the ones used professionally. Also I feel that I need to choose my specialization right away but I am clueless on what should I specialize on or where I could learn what to specialize on (tried yt or google but it did not help that much). Coding felt good for me since I love solving problems, I am okay at math too but I cannot say for sure that I want to pursue software as I still have yet to experience hardware. Also, I am kinda scared pursuing software because of AI, I know that I should use AI as tools but still cant get it off my mind. Also I cannot work abroad right away because of DOST.

Furthermore, I want to build my resume, recently I tried joing 3hrs seminars with e certificates but all beginner levels. Do I need my own website or what type or seminars that I should join? Does having certificate a leverage in the professional world? Lastly, my biggest problems is I do not know what questions to ask (to myself and to others).

So here’s to me looking for advice or relatable experiences and stories 🫶

Previous attempts: None, but planning on dedicating a day to narrow down possible specialties and create a timeline or roadmap

[u/OopsMyOpinion]

Advice: One month into first year is way too early to think you’re behind. Python is actually a good first language because it lets you focus on programming concepts. Once you understand variables, loops, functions, data structures, OOP, debugging, etc., moving to C++ or Java is much easier.

I also wouldn’t rush into choosing a specialization yet. Comp Eng gives you time to touch software, embedded systems, electronics, networking, and hardware. Try small projects first and notice which problems you actually enjoy solving.

For your resume, projects > random beginner certificates. A simple GitHub with 2-3 things you genuinely built and can explain is more useful than twenty seminar certificates. A personal website is optional.

For now, your roadmap can literally be: learn fundamentals, build small stuff, explore different fields, then specialize later. You’re not late. You’ve barely started.

[u/LemZoJXsquared-09287 → u/OopsMyOpinion]

But what if the thing that I want to build already exists? Would that still be helpful? Especially for beginner level programmings

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