11/07/2023
It is not the end of the world!
If you are a high school graduate and if you are genuinely interested in studying computer science, you must try hard to get into a computer science program.
But always remember that even if you study something else, you can still have a wonderful and meaningful career in so many different ways. Most CEOs of top companies in the world don't hold a bachelor's degree in computer science! These companies include Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Google and Microsoft. Tim Cook of Apple studied Industrial Engineering. Andy Jassy of Amazon did a BA in Government and later an MBA. Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook is a drop out. Sundar Pichai of Google studied Metallurgical Engineering. Satya Nadella studied Electrical/Electronics Engineering.
Almost no Nobel Laureate did a degree in Computer Science! I am definitely NOT trying to argue against a degree in Computer Science. It is an excellent discipline to pursue. But my point is that there are many other exciting fields of study with great potential for future employment and a meaningful life.
In fact a good undergraduate degree with a solid foundation in Liberal Arts and Sciences would be an excellent choice too.
If you are in your early twenties or younger, you are going to have a career for sixty years or more! You read it right. A sixty years long career needs a different kind of preparation. I would strongly encourage you to get trained in three broad areas:
1. Language and Logic.
2. Contemporary Society (History, Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science etc.
3. If possible a basic understanding of Mathematics and Statistics including basic computer programming.
This foundational training and a mindset of life-long learning will definitely make you future-ready!