| Topic Name: |
Women in Software Engineering |
| Message Name: |
Keep at it, amg2006! |
| Date Posted: |
05/03/2002 |
| In Reply To: |
Hi,
I'm a sophmore currently majoring in Computer Science. I really just started, having completed only the first Java course, but I really love it. I've done a bit of pragramming for fun on the side since I've learned, and I've always been teaching myself new web languages.
But I only got a B in the course, and most of the rest of the class received A's and A-s. It only gets harder from here (data structure and algorithms is next), and though I've been reviewing and reading my textbook ahead as much as I can, I know I am not as good as many of my peers. Most of them are guys.
My question is whether the CS industry is as full of men as my classes are, and whether it will be hard for me as a woman to start with. If I am not as fast or saavy as my male peers, will I simply be reinforcing sterotypes?
I love computer games, always always have, and dream of working for Squaresoft. I really enjoy coding, and feel I've a real solid base now. But I know I'm not as quick to pick things up. I really want to pursue this as a career and am wondering if anyone can give me an idea as to what it may be like.
Thanks in advance. |
| Message: |
What you're probably running into is the 'guy network'. The guys probably aren't quite as good as they look, but they spend time in machine rooms sharing geek tricks. See if you can't join, or get out on the net and network.
I begaan in a similar position to yours. I was a lib arts grad who had to learn to program on my own, and I've done alright. You can't ever stop learning though. I suggest you pick up the Deitel & Deitel book on Enterprise Java (their second coursebook) and work through it. It will give you a leg up. Another way to look is C# (Deitel has a good book there also).
Career prospects for female CS grads are really excellent long term.
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