I encountered these types of students when I was at university, as well. From what I hear, they're common at most universities. It seems like the vast majority of people going into Computer Science choose it because they want to write video games or make web sites, not because they're genuinely interested in Computer Science. Many schools have been downgrading their programs to cater to them (after all, their money is just as <insert color of legal tender here>).
As one of the "really awesome friends" that groovy2shoes mentioned, I have to say that he is spot on. He and I were lucky enough to be put in the same group for a software engineering project, forcing us both to forego our usual policy of avoiding other Comp Sci majors.
Other people had luck with clubs (LUGs, 2600), but I always felt like an outsider when I tried to go to things like that. Keep an eye out for the people that seem to keep to themselves, you might find out that they too find the majority of your peers revolting.
Honestly, I was absolutely miserable for the first two years. Eventually I met a couple of really awesome friends. The only advice I can really give is not to write anyone off without first giving them a chance: some of the coolest people will be the ones you least suspect.
As a fellow CS Grad, my one little piece of advice is to just give it some time. You've got a weed-out course coming somewhere after your intro classes, and those left will be the ones that are really dedicated and have the tools to press onward.
This seems like a good insight. It's true that most of the people I'm judging (sounds negative, but I guess that's what I'm doing) are the ones who are quite outspoken. perhaps there are some gems in the rough, just hiding.
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I encountered these types of students when I was at university, as well. From what I hear, they're common at most universities. It seems like the vast majority of people going into Computer Science choose it because they want to write video games or make web sites, not because they're genuinely interested in Computer Science. Many schools have been downgrading their programs to cater to them (after all, their money is just as <insert color of legal tender here>).
Thanks for the comment and for reading; it's good to know I'm not alone.
How did you deal with it? Did you actively seek out like-minded people? If so, any tips on how I can do the same?
Thanks again.
As one of the "really awesome friends" that groovy2shoes mentioned, I have to say that he is spot on. He and I were lucky enough to be put in the same group for a software engineering project, forcing us both to forego our usual policy of avoiding other Comp Sci majors. Other people had luck with clubs (LUGs, 2600), but I always felt like an outsider when I tried to go to things like that. Keep an eye out for the people that seem to keep to themselves, you might find out that they too find the majority of your peers revolting.
Good luck!
Honestly, I was absolutely miserable for the first two years. Eventually I met a couple of really awesome friends. The only advice I can really give is not to write anyone off without first giving them a chance: some of the coolest people will be the ones you least suspect.
As a fellow CS Grad, my one little piece of advice is to just give it some time. You've got a weed-out course coming somewhere after your intro classes, and those left will be the ones that are really dedicated and have the tools to press onward.
This seems like a good insight. It's true that most of the people I'm judging (sounds negative, but I guess that's what I'm doing) are the ones who are quite outspoken. perhaps there are some gems in the rough, just hiding.