Not unless you had time for both. I definitely didn't have to spend as much time as my peers on Comp Sci homework, and had plenty of time left over for my own pursuits.
The great programmers I respect easily got CS degrees without working too hard; you show up and submit your tests/projects using your self-acquired knowledge. You should also have a natural curiosity for the subject matter. I think this is why Google's strict GPA policies work for them.
If you're an undergrad then your full-time job is to get your degree. If not, then you probably shouldn't have gone to college in the first place... Why take on all that debt if you aren't going to take it seriously?
Or you could be me and work close to full time the entire time you are in university so you aren't in ridiculous debt when you leave.
(that being said, I would have done much much better in my undergrad if I hadn't of done that)
I chose courses that interested and challenged me. I had semesters that were nothing but computer science, math and physics. Between implementing a compiler, figuring out how to display a polygonal topographical map and learning the life cycle of stars, I didn't have time for side projects.
I submit that if your side projects interest you more than your studies, then you are in the wrong place.
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I'm deeply suspicious of good grades. I think, "Didn't you have projects that were more interesting than your studies?"
Not unless you had time for both. I definitely didn't have to spend as much time as my peers on Comp Sci homework, and had plenty of time left over for my own pursuits.
The great programmers I respect easily got CS degrees without working too hard; you show up and submit your tests/projects using your self-acquired knowledge. You should also have a natural curiosity for the subject matter. I think this is why Google's strict GPA policies work for them.
If you're an undergrad then your full-time job is to get your degree. If not, then you probably shouldn't have gone to college in the first place... Why take on all that debt if you aren't going to take it seriously?
PS I didn't know this when I was an undergrad.
Or you could be me and work close to full time the entire time you are in university so you aren't in ridiculous debt when you leave. (that being said, I would have done much much better in my undergrad if I hadn't of done that)
Same here, I alternated between being a lifeguard and being a freelance coder and technical writer. Did a bit of studying in my free time...
But you can earn money anytime, I shouldn't have been so impatient.
What if you did have more interesting projects but focused more time on your studies?
When your paying large amounts for a college education you want to make the most out of it.
No.
I chose courses that interested and challenged me. I had semesters that were nothing but computer science, math and physics. Between implementing a compiler, figuring out how to display a polygonal topographical map and learning the life cycle of stars, I didn't have time for side projects.
I submit that if your side projects interest you more than your studies, then you are in the wrong place.