Week 4

 Part One: Educational Goals

My primary educational goal in the Computer Science program is to build a strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, and software engineering so that I am prepared for both academic and professional challenges. I want to graduate with not only technical knowledge, but also the ability to think critically about problems and design efficient solutions. A more personal goal is to become confident enough in my coding skills to take on projects independently, from planning through deployment. I can envision myself walking across the graduation stage, knowing I have built up the skills, habits, and resilience that will carry me into the next stage of my life.

Part Two: Career Goals
My career goal is to secure a position as a software engineer with a focus on full-stack development. I want to contribute to projects that have a real impact on people’s lives, whether in technology, healthcare, or education. Long term, I would like to grow into a lead engineer or project manager who can mentor others while continuing to code. Ultimately, my career path is driven by curiosity and the excitement of solving problems with technology. Even if the specific role evolves, I envision myself in a career that allows me to keep learning and adapting.

Part Three: ETS Computer Science Test Percentile Guess
Looking at the ETS Computer Science test format and sample questions, I feel a little nervous but also motivated. Some areas, like algorithms and discrete mathematics, will take extra practice for me to feel fully confident. If I had to take the test today, I think I would probably place around the 50th percentile, simply because my preparation is not complete. With focused study over the next 18 months, I realistically believe I could improve to around the 75th percentile. I think that consistent practice with sample problems, revisiting fundamentals, and timed practice tests will make a big difference.

Part Four: Weekly Reflection
This week’s readings and activities reminded me of the importance of setting clear goals. It is one thing to say “I want to do well,” but it feels very different when I can write out a specific, vivid goal and picture myself achieving it. I also learned that career goals don’t need to be final right away — it’s more about building a direction to work toward and then adjusting as I learn more about the field. Reviewing the ETS exam also gave me a clearer picture of the skills I need to sharpen over the next year and a half, and that awareness helps me plan study habits now. Overall, this week helped me connect my short-term work in class to my long-term academic and career goals.

Comments

  1. LCSeptember 30, 2025 at 11:20 PM

    Hey, I like how that you know exactly what you want to do and feel good about where you’re headed – a smart mix of skills and becoming a lead engineer or project manager that people would follow. The only thing I would suggest is try to split your goals into bite-sized pieces that involves projects or focused practices. Also, take a few minutes each week to check how it's going; little tweaks build real skill over time.

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  2. Quratulain SiddiqOctober 3, 2025 at 8:14 PM

    Hi, I really like how clear your goals are! I also want to strengthen my foundation in algorithms and data structures, so I connected with what you wrote about being confident enough to take on independent projects. That’s a great way to measure progress. One idea might be trying out an open-source project or side project; it could give you that independence while still letting you learn from others.

    Your career goals are also inspiring, especially wanting to mentor others in the future. I think it’s awesome that you’re already thinking about leadership while still keeping your curiosity and love for problem-solving at the center. Keep going, you’re definitely on the right track!

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  3. ChanroopOctober 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM

    Hi, I like how similar our goals for our education are. Being confident in our coding skills and learning more than just technical skills will be helpful in our future when we are working in a professional environment. Your career goals are something you will succeed in especially since you have the curiosity to learn and grow. I think always wanting to learn and having that motivation is great for this field and I wish you the best!

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  4. Josh GOctober 6, 2025 at 9:00 PM

    I like your mission-driven career goal. There are a couple ways you can go, either specializing or generalizing. Both can make you valuable but in different ways. Exploring different industries can help you be a better strategic leader, sythesizing lessons from different industries together. Specializing can make you an expert in the field which can also make you highly desirable as an employee and a leader. Most important is to be around people that you like and that support you, regardless of the mission. Sometimes you can find that in unexpected companies, so I'd say don't be afraid of jumping out of your comfort zone. Good luck!

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