đ» What I Wish I Knew Before Studying Computer Science at University
I had the privilege of studying at EPFL (Ăcole Polytechnique FĂ©dĂ©rale de Lausanne). Hereâs the advice I wish I had received when I started my computer science studies.
1. Make a personal website
Prefer to work on things you can show. Prefer to work where people can see you. Prefer to work on things you can own
Build a personal website as early as possible. Ideally, code it yourself so it reflects your identity. Donât worry about perfectionâjust make it easy to update and keep evolving it over time.
2. Start writing a blog
Writing is the beginning of all wealth
Writing is the foundation of thought leadership. Share what you're learning â especially the problems youâve solved. Many others are struggling with the same issues. A monthly post is enough. After a few years, your blog will become a valuable portfolio and attract followers, opportunities, and connections.
3. Work on open-source projects
Your net worth is your network
Contributing to open source is one of the best ways to accelerate your learning. Youâll gain hands-on experience, collaborate with real developers, and build a valuable network. Start by searching GitHub for âgood first issueâ tags to find beginner-friendly projects.
A good way to start is to look for âgood first issueâ.
4. Donât get crazy if you donât take the maximal vote
It might seem like you need to be a math genius or code like Linus Torvalds to succeed. You donât. When I applied to jobs, no one asked about my GPAâbut they did look at my GitHub, personal projects, and online presence. Focus on what you can demonstrate and communicate clearlyâsoft skills matter too.
5. Participate to University activities
Join hackathons, student clubs, faculty assemblies, or even help organize social events. These experiences enrich your academic life, grow your network, and improve your teamwork and leadership skills.
6. Keep tracks of your learnings
Document your learnings using tools like Notion, Obsidian, or even a simple markdown journal. Having a digital second brain helps consolidate your understanding and revisit key concepts when needed.
7. Learn how to learn
Read A Mind for Numbers by Barbara Oakley â a fantastic resource for mastering how to study, especially for technical subjects. It teaches metacognitive techniques that help you study more efficiently and retain more.
6. Conclusion
Keep showing up
Consistency beats intensity. Start now â go to vercel.com, fork a template, and begin personalizing it. Tomorrow, upload a profile picture. The day after, write a title for your first blog post. Keep going. In two months, youâll have a site youâre proud of. In two years, youâll have an audience and a network that opens doors.
Studying computer science today is full of opportunity. Enjoy the rideâIâm rooting for you! đ„