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Can Just Anyone Study Computer Science?

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17 October, 2024

The answer to that question is no. Computer science is a high scope field in Pakistan and across the world. Computer technologies are impacting almost every aspect of our lives. Entertainment, banking, grocery shopping, malls, education, tutoring, and so much more of our lives is now done through our cell phones and laptops. This rapid expansion makes computer science look like a highly prestigious profession to many. And so a huge number of students pursue a computer science degree, but do they all excel at it? Let’s find out in this article.

Myths Regarding Computer Science

Mathematics is the biggest myth associated with computer science. Many students are told that they should pursue computer science because they are good at math. This is where they go wrong.

Although, computer science does demand good mathematical abilities, but that is not all. You need to have a distinct skill set, and aptitude alongside mathematical excellence, if you wish to become a successful computer scientist.

As far as mathematics is concerned, don’t you think mathematics itself could be a good career option for math geniuses? Other than mathematics, engineering, accountancy, aviation etc, also require mathematics! So, what do you think, is being good at math enough of a metric alone, to decide what you will be studying?

Moreover, many say that computer science is the field of the future. Resultantly, numerous students pick computer science, artificial intelligence, and cyber security. Many of them end up unsuccessful in such fields. Why is that so?

Just because computer science offers high paying careers, doesn’t mean everyone should do it! If you are not a competent student in computer science, and do the degree hoping to find high paying jobs, you are more likely to remain unemployed because your aptitude may be different from that needed for computer science.

Skills and Aptitude for Computer Science

Beyond mathematical abilities, you will need to have a set of technical and soft skills in order to study computer science and do well in your professional life. Let’s dive deeper into some of the most important things you need,

Technical Skills

To study computer science well, you will need to have strong concepts and technical skills in some or all of the following,

Programming in multiple programming languages (that’s a given)
Software development and design
Cloud computing
Block chain technology
Information technology
Cyber security
Game Development
App Development
Project Management (Important for your professional endeavors).

In order to attain excellence at one or more of these technical skills, you also need to be a systematic worker. This means you need to be able to divide your tasks in order, and complete them according to a set schedule. A field like computer science is going to test you on these lines also. So if you wish to meet deadlines or do the correct programming or think of good new innovation, you must be able to handle your affairs systematically and in order.

Are you interested in cyber security? Read 'Online Cyber Security Degree'.

Analysis and Critical Thinking

As a computer science student, it is very important for you to have a mind that can analyze data and information. You will be dealing with large number sets, or information from multiple sources. You will have to be able to infer data and conclusions out of it. You may also be predicting trends and building products accordingly.

If you have a brain that can simultaneously understand multiple situations and understand what might be going on between the lines, computer science may be a good field for you.

Problem Solving

Are you someone who can cleverly present multiple solutions to a problem quickly and intelligently? In that case, computer science and its advanced fields are a really good fit for you. In your professional life you will be meeting a variety of clients who will be asking you for solutions to a wide array of issues. You could be fixing technical issues, or building something new from scratch. In such cases, you will be required to produce multiple solutions along with the pros and cons of each.

Knowledge of Markets and Trends

It is highly important for computer science students to know

The latest technologies and their popularity
Innovations that spark the interest of their target clients
What other companies and firms are working on
Which technologies are not so popular amongst the market
Variable market trends from place to place

If you are not ‘market smart’ your survival in this field will be difficult. This is because everything you work on needs to be tailored to the ever-evolving market needs.

Creativity and Innovation

Can you think of a new invention? Can you propose innovation to a previous invention? Or can you use previously invented things to make something unique? If you think you can, then you must be a highly creative and innovative person.

Creativity, and innovation are crucial to most professions of the 21st century. In the field of computer science and technology, even more so! It is very important for you to be able to think of innovative new ideas. These ideas could be to improve something, to create something, or to solve a problem. This will take you a long way in a computer science career.

Networking And Interpersonal Skills

Your network is your net worth! If you are an introverted person who does not prefer to interact with a lot of people, computer science may not be good for you. In the job market you will need to maintain a large network of organizations, friends, industry related people etc. Your interactions with these people can help you create a good profile as well as land you the opportunities you would need to Soar higher in your field.

Aptitude For Computer Science

Before you choose computer science or any other degree, you must understand if you have the aptitude you would need in order to excel in those professions. Your aptitude goes beyond your academic performance in a few subjects. In fact your aptitude is linked to your behavioral patterns, values, and distinct set of soft skills and hard skills as well.

Also read 'How to Make University Life Worth It in Pakistan'

Are you overwhelmed because you do not completely understand your aptitude? We have you covered. Contact us at +92 333 5766716 to book an aptitude assessment or a career counseling session, to understand your aptitude and what fields are best for you.