Member Avatar for dedBOYriot

i am a junior at DeVry university and a junior at Ohio University in Computer Science. But I feel like I dont know anything about my field... Would I be better off to change majors? I really love computers and especially computer programming, but I just dont feel like i get it, or like i am even near the knowledge levels of my peers. anyone have some good advice? i really want to learn more, but when it comes down to the nuts and bolts i dont know where to begin... help? please?

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A clear, practical plan helps more than worrying about being "behind." For this means turning interest in programming into a short, measurable skill plan while finishing coursework. Below are focused steps that other juniors have used to catch up and build confidence.

  1. Inventory weaknesses: list the 3 topics that feel least comfortable (examples: basic language syntax, data structures, debugging, discrete math).
  2. Project-first practice: pick one small, finishable project tied to a weak topic (a command-line tool, simple web app, or a tiny game prototype). Ship it in 2–6 weeks; having completed work matters far more than theory alone.
  3. Reimplement fundamentals: write a few data structures/algorithms from scratch and add tests. The goal is comprehension, not speed.
  4. Tooling and workflow: get comfortable with version control, a debugger, unit tests, and building from the command line. These are high-leverage skills employers notice.
  5. Feedback loop: put code on a repo, request reviews (classmates, professors, online), and iterate. Short feedback cycles accelerate learning.
  6. Career signals: aim for one internship, part-time dev gig, or a hackathon entry before graduation.

As noted, a mid-degree major change has trade-offs; deciding whether to switch should weigh time, cost, and long-term goals. If game development is the interest mentioned by , prioritize linear algebra, C++/C#, small engine prototypes, and physics/math electives rather than switching majors immediately. ’s point about broad education still matters—select electives that add practical value.

Measure progress with concrete milestones (one finished project, one data structure implemented, one code review received) every month. Office hours, study groups, and short daily practice beats cramming. Comparing to peers is misleading; steady, targeted work produces competence quickly.

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Member Avatar for alc6379

Junior year is a little late, IMHO, to consider changing majors. Not that you shouldn't, but I think you're going to have to do some hard decision making-- maybe CS isn't for you; Is there a computer topic that does interest you?

If you can salvage anything from your previous education, do so. Make it apply to your new career, whatever you decide to do.

Member Avatar for dedBOYriot

thanks... maybe video games???

Member Avatar for webecedarian

Well, the point of college used to be in large part to get a general education, not ot use it as a trade school.

The question is what else would interst you? Better now than later, salving or not.

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