College Trouble (taking something you want to be or something you're good at)

I've been wanting to post this for a long time but I would always end up think my post was useless. Well, I have a week to make up my mind. I am currently in my 2nd term of freshmen in college. I got in this college with the course, Bachelor in Science - Computer Science.

My first term was a complete disaster. I barely passed my Computer Science Algebra and Basic Computer Concepts. I failed Computer Programming 1. I wasn't able to finish the big project (which was a domino game made in C). I am retaking Computer Programming 1 again but with a different teacher (BTW this other teacher is waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better). My plan was to make it to Software Tech probably specializing in AI. I dunno if I was aiming for something possible or aiming for the unreachable.

Now I am having second thoughts. My school doesn't have any art courses, so I thought of shifting to the sister school. This school has a special course called Bachelor of Arts - Multimedia Arts. Its the only school in my country that has it. It was supposed to be my first choice when I was in senior year, but I thought back then that it was too specific. I like the arts. Music is also one of my forte (my dream is to make a band!!!).

The other thing I take into consideration is my parents. They are paying for my college (its impossible for me to pay it myself). I don't want to retake and retake so many subjects.

My mom and dad had a small argument one time. Whether you have to be good at what you do to enjoy it OR you just like to do it (whether or not your good or bad at it). I am bad at math..actually I am bad at logic. In a test I took in school, my score in decreasing order was...clerical, spacial, body then logic. My clerical and spacial were equal..I think

I am still not sure whether to shift or not!!

Jam it back in, in the dark.

If you have full support from your parents to switch schools, then I urge you to do so. Better spend your life doing something you enjoy than doing something you struggle at. If you have no determination in your current course, then you may keep on failing it and cause your parents to pay more money than they would if you excelled in the other course. Just make sure the other course your looking at is 100% what you want to do before you go changing. Good luck!

There's nowhere I can't reach.

If you are good at something, and you love to do it then you should just do it. No second thought, no "what if" bullshit, just do it. If it's something you love, there should be no question. If your parents support you great. If not, MAKE them understand. This is your life and not theirs and you shouldn't have to live your life miserable in a field you hate just because they think one way if "safer" than the other.

Go with your heart, do what you love to do. You won't regret it.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Don't do math if you know you're bad at it, it's not something you can just keep trying and hope to pick up one day, you need at least some talent
If you're already failing units, chances are you'll fail more, the earlier you switch out the better for you and your parents

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Thanks guys. You're advice is greatly appreciated. I was just wondering though, are you guys all working or still in college?

Quote:

Originally posted by: MakoAoyama
If your parents support you great. If not, MAKE them understand.

Actually my parents don't go with any side. It's both a good thing and a bad thing really.

Quote:

Originally posted by: Sian
Just make sure the other course your looking at is 100% what you want to do before you go changing.

Oh yeah, I wasn't able to put somethng it on my first post. I want to be in the game industry. There aren't any big game companies here so I plan to work a bit before I go to another country. I dunno if its applicable but I always wanted to go to different countries...but I think you can get to different other countries with almost any job.

I was speaking idiomatically.

You can only get imported into the US for a job if you can show what you're being imported for can't be done by any current American citizen. I imagine other countries might have similar laws.

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

I'm kinda going through the same situation right now, but if I could live through this year. I think I might be able to survive college and stuff also.

I'm pretty set on becoming a Physical Therapist majoring in Psychology, but my problem is all the pre-requisites I have to take regarding my future in this course, consisting of various science classes, a statistics class I have absolutely no idea about, and the direct fear of taking Calculus.

I'm starting to have second thoughts myself about switching my major or something... Perhaps to Communication or something since that might be something I would be interested in, but I'll see where Psychology takes me first...

Anyway, regarding your situation, Minoko. My brother pretty much went through the same thing. Wanted to go into dentistry, but it just wasn't for him. He switched his major to something that was better suited for him and is now just one semester away from graduation. Point here, go with what you'll be happy with. If you're doing this for your parents, then you're doing college for the wrong reasons. It's your future, whatever will make you happy in life, you should roll with that.

FELIPE NO

Hmmm. I ran into this situation at one point in college.

I should note my situation was different. I had to go to two colleges to get my degree...first was three years for my associates (one year was basically sitting out because I had to take one final class that was not available without bumping another necessary class out during one semester, and then had to wait another semester because my major, CS, was too full), and the other for my bachelors.

Due to being in college for so long, having to wait, the huge change (especially going from no college to a huge one), and the difficulty of my major (CS) and minor (math), it took a strain on me. The first two years were just horrific. After the first semester, I wanted to stop, and the same for after the third semester (I guess the several month break during the summer helped me do I didn't feel this was after the second semester although I do remember being so happy to finally finish it). However, I stuck with it and made it through and did well. From it, I can say this:

1.) While Math IS important, know that (and this was also verified by one of my professors) that many CSer's don't know much about the math underneath. They simpily don't need to know because either 1) it's done for them, or 2) it's for research and theoritical purposes only.

2.) Logic does play an important part. However, realize that I have seen symbolic logic in other majors including Math, Philosphy and even Writing classes. You just can't get away from it. IN truth, CSer's get a fairly small portion of both in the terms of a dicrete structures class (which combine Mathematics with Symbolic Logic, along with some Statistics, simple Calculus, and a few other things).

3.) The term A.I. is super vague. DO you mean such as thinking that a person would (i.e. QRIO, or those from iRobot, etc) or something just for a game (so the 'Bots' in video games)? Keep in mind the the former is still being researched. While very interesting, it requires a <b> high degree of logic concerning many aspects of logic</b>. And you better believe that will contain symbolic logic.

4.) Here is some advice on programming. I am sure your professors have told you this. Keep your hands off the keyboard and instead get a pen and paper and write out the algorithms for your programs. While this won't help you on tests (so you do need to learn the in's and out's of the language), this WILL help you become a better and more efficient programmer. I have had this happen myself when I managed to solve what was a two or three week programming project in two days.

5.) That being said, give yourself enough time for programs. Do NOT wait until the last moment. The biggest piece of my advice is not to wait until the last minute to do homework, but (if possible) the first minute. That way, you can get it done, and out of the way. And if you have problems, you have plenty of time to ask your teachers.

6.) C is a rough language to start out with. I am surprised they aren't using an easier one like Java. Be that as it may, take a deep breathe and really get to know the language.

7.) Speaking of taking a deep breathe, combine suggestions 5 and 6. What do I mean by this? Start immediately, but if you run into problems that you just can't solve...walk away for a few hours or a day. Take a deep breathe. Think about it OCCASIONALLY (but not all day and night) and write down any thoughts on a nearby piece of paper. Then go at it again.

8.) Realize this-you may have to run into that former teacher again. There were certain teachers at my university that we sorta cringed at having due to their reps. However, at some point, you have to realize that if you want to graduate (without spending a ton of extra time and money), you just gotta buckle down, grit your teeth, and get through it.

9.) Look at what classes you can take within the next few years. It's a shame you weren't at my university-one of my professors also had a degree in music so he combined them into a special interest class (actually several of them) totally on music (digital and other). Check things out to see what classes you will be taking the future to 1) decide if you really want to continue, and 2) decide what you want to take. You might also ask if there are teachers who would be willing, once you have enough background, to teach special interest classes related to your major (usually they take the place of one of your electives if it's a high enough level but not always, so check).

With all that being said, I will say to take the major you are happy with. I have a friend who graduated in music. Spent four or five years. THen he hated his career choice and started all over again. Such a waste of time and money. Even with me having to take six years, I STILL (even despite the rough times) took something I truly enough, want to learn about, and get into the field with in some point. You could have had a rough start-it happens. I would suggest seeing how this semester goes, but also keeping an eye out, and getting information for your sister college. IF you find that oyu do better this semester and are happy, then stay there. If you aren't, then you are already ready to make the change if you feel it will work.

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?

Originally Posted by Minoko

Thanks guys. You're advice is greatly appreciated. I was just wondering though, are you guys all working or still in college?

I'm at Uni (College there), just started actually! But while I was at College (last two years of high school there =p) I felt some pressure for doing what was considered more academic. I didn't get direct pressure from my parents, but I could tell they wanted me to go into a field like Science or English. But after my first year, I had a realisation that it's my life and i'm going to follow my own dreams so now i'm doing a degree in Film Studies and I couldn't be happier. When you truly enjoy the work, it's a lot easier because you're interested and eager for knowledge. So I say you should follow yours. =)

Jam it back in, in the dark.

If you are bad at math, avoid general computer science degrees. They're all categorized as math-based disciplines, so that means heaps of advanced calculus. If you're like me and hate math, avoid avoid avoid.

Don't obsess too much if you screw up your first couple semesters. It's pretty much the norm, simply because your first choice tends not to fit too well. I shot for an art degree, but I found out I don't mix too well with the art world. It happens.

My advice? Work on something you're good at, and take classes related to what you want to be as electives. The surest way to ruin something you enjoy is to have to do it as your job, so I don't think you should focus on that. Pick something where you're skilled, that you can fall back on if you need a serious job, and work on what you enjoy on the side.

There's nowhere I can't reach.

@mortis: That is just the thing, I've been doing alright now in Computer Programming now. I also do most of my coding in a notebook (paper notebook). The thing is the sister school is known for their easy entrance exam. Actually I also thought about being a programmer. My brother is also majors in ComSci. He needed to retake some subjects but he still pushed through. One thing I don't like about his job is being in a desk and on a computer all day.

@STRIGON-2: Psychology is a pretty interesting subject!!

Quote:

Originally posted by Sian
I felt some pressure for doing what was considered more academic

That was why I picked ComSci. It was the closest academic course to the job I wanted. It still feels odd. From an academic then switching to an arts course...Everytime I hold the papers for transfer..that is what goes on in my head.

Quote:

Originally posted by Monkey King
Pick something where you're skilled, that you can fall back on if you need a serious job, and work on what you enjoy on the side.

That is one of my other problems...You see I don't excel in any (except math). To tell the truth I used to be good at math (imagine my dad reaction when I failed math for the first time..btw my dad is a physics professor). Drawing, photography, writing and singing are the things I can say I have a knack for. Singing would be the highest if it was ranked (although I have a weak ear for half steps...specially in the lower notes). I do like to make somethings out of the ordinary.
Actually in art..as long as it has a deadline, its stressing. If it doesn't, its relaxing.

Just a curious...
Would an hardcore progamming course give me more advatage than an multimedia arts, in terms of getting a job in the gaming industry???
I am thinking I need to build up credentials first...

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I'm thinking that with the gaming industry, anyone can code, but if you have more of a creative aspect into games, I think you'll be more marketable.

Its like "Yeah I can code up lots of shit that probably everyone else here can BUT I have no real experience with game companies"

OR

"I can help contribute really interesting ideas that are very creative and new but am new to working with a large game company"

Which one do you think would market more

and I don't think I'm ever going to venture into programming again...my ComSci teach turned me off from that idea just by the way he taught it

(and yet I still code in DreamWeaver sometimes)

How ya doing, buddy?

There have been others inthe past who have had the same exact problems that i have seen get through it all. So it DOES happen.

You may want to try look 'down the road' at the major to 1) find out if you are interested in that type of stuff and 2) find out which direction in computer science you want to focus in if you are interested. At my college, until recently, they use to have three branches, one for networking, one for programming (I think), and then the standard, put everything together branch. That gives soem flavor and a chance for students to focus more on their interests.

Unfortunately, I don't yet have an answer to "Sit at my desk and computer all day" question/opinion.

I was speaking idiomatically.

Again thanks guys...I'll be finishing my application for transfer today. I just need to do the clearance.
Right now all freshmen have no majors. We are blocked at the first term. In 2nd term, we fix our scheds but if you don't pass a certain subject you most probably won't be blocked. I think there is 4 branches..Software Tech, Instructional, Network and Systems Engineering.

@RAZGRIZ-2: Specialization...I would likely either fall in storyboard or character design hehe

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

Originally Posted by Minoko

@STRIGON-2: Psychology is a pretty interesting subject!!

I would probably be liking it more if the classes, based on impression, interested me, and my General Psych teacher wasn't piss ass boring.

On top of that, I thought about how this would look against my future... What kind of job could I guarantee if I majored in Psych? So, I'm almost decided to take Communication, but I'll live out the rest of my General Psych class to give it a chance.

But either way, most of the things that my school offers for Communications is pretty interesting.

FELIPE NO

I was wondering....The school I am about to move into has this....reputation. I dunno but it just unnerves me a bit. I asked two friends in that school. One said it was fun...but the other said that it was..like highschool. I dunno if that is a good thing or a bad thing.

You might be wondering why until now I haven't finished my shifting...Its because there was a technical problem with my papers.

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?

With school you can't take other students opinions.

Hell, on the news it said my High School is the most dangerous in Oregon.

Had you asked me while I was there, I would have said nope.

Jam it back in, in the dark.

You have many different ideas about what you might want to do with your life. I suggest writing down all your options and then weigh how strongly you feel about each choice.

Sleep on it and if you still feel strongly about it, go with it! do your best. If you really want it and are willing to work hard to understand truly whatever you want to do, then you will get what you want eventually.

Everyone constantly think about our own future and wonder if it's really what we want. In your situation Money seems to be a big factor in deciding if you should act own those impulse, if your parents support you Then GREAT! But if not, Don't shit your pants, I'm sure there's a bunch of resources you can find to finance your dreams. Good Luck!! Don't give up, believe in yourself!

There's nowhere I can't reach.

Originally Posted by Minoko

I was wondering....The school I am about to move into has this....reputation. I dunno but it just unnerves me a bit. I asked two friends in that school. One said it was fun...but the other said that it was..like highschool. I dunno if that is a good thing or a bad thing.

You might be wondering why until now I haven't finished my shifting...Its because there was a technical problem with my papers.

Reputation is just based on whatever everyone says as Slash mentioned.

The school I go to is ghetto as hell. But overall, it's still a pretty good school, so I'll live with it for now. Either way, I'm only sticking around for the dual degree program that my school offers with Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy.

I doubt I could find a better school in NJ that offers that type of program anyway.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.