Daily Habits to Prepare for Graduate School?

Question

I'm currently interested in pursuing a graduate degree in computer science, but right now I am working full time and will need to continue to do so for a few more years until I can pay off my undergraduate debt. I also have very limited research experience as an undergraduate. That said I was wondering what are some small things I could incorporate into my daily routine to both prepare myself for graduate school (I've noticed the work in the corporate world is very different than school) and make myself a more attractive candidate when I am able to apply?

Answer 1

Hi there! There are a number of different ways to prepare for graduate programs in computer science. Google has an awesome app for mobile devices called "Grasshopper" which teaches you basic coding skills with fun games. It's sort of like DuoLingo, but for coding. I would also recommend looking at LinkedIn Learning courses or resources available at your local library.

If you are worried about your readiness for a graduate degree, there are an increasing number of "bridge" programs popping up across the United States. Northeastern has a program called the "ALIGN Master's in Computer Science", which gives you a full year's worth of introductory coursework and scholarships are available. NYU Tandon School of Engineering also has an online bridge program for select engineering programs.

If you are looking for something in-person but low cost, I would recommend reaching out to professors who teach introductory Computer Science courses at local colleges. Write to them and explain you are hoping to return to graduate school but need to build a foundation and ask to "audit" the course - that basically means sitting in the class and not being graded on anything but getting the chance to learn from the lectures.

I hope this helps! Best of luck!