Looking to be proactive for Software Engineering program

[Indochina]

Good day everyone,

I'm currently looking for people who have gone or are currently into any Software Engineering program and that could provide information.

I won't be getting into any program for another year or two and I would like to know of any ways I could possibly start improving my transition into the program. It could be software they use, theory that students usually have trouble with, anything that could be helpful since I will have at least one year to kill with some free time on my hands.

Thanks in advance for any information you might provide!

PS: I've done research but I'd like to get some different opinions.

 

[TonyG]

Hello there,

First of all, it's great to see your enthusiasm and proactive approach towards preparing for your software engineering program. As a scientist with a background in software engineering, I would be happy to share some tips and suggestions to help you in your transition.

1. Familiarize yourself with programming languages: Software engineering programs typically cover a wide range of programming languages, so it would be beneficial for you to have some prior knowledge in at least one or two languages. You can start with popular languages like Python, Java, or C++, and explore their fundamentals and syntax.

2. Practice coding: The best way to improve your programming skills is through practice. There are many online platforms like HackerRank, LeetCode, and Codecademy that offer coding challenges and exercises to help you sharpen your coding skills.

3. Get familiar with software development tools: In addition to programming languages, software engineers also use various tools and technologies to develop and test software. Some commonly used tools include Git, GitHub, Jenkins, and Selenium. You can start by learning the basics of these tools and familiarize yourself with their functionalities.

4. Read up on software engineering principles and methodologies: Understanding the principles and methodologies behind software engineering can greatly benefit you in your studies. Some important concepts to explore include Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, and Test-driven development.

5. Network with software engineers: Reach out to people who are currently studying or working in the field of software engineering. They can provide valuable insights and advice on their experiences and help you understand what to expect from the program.

I hope these suggestions will be helpful for you in your preparation. Good luck with your future studies in software engineering!