Introduction:

Choosing a career path can be a daunting task, and sometimes, our interests and aspirations evolve along the way. I found myself in such a situation when I decided to pursue computer science in my degree, despite having a background in civil engineering during my diploma years. In this article, I want to share my experience as a direct second-year student and discuss the challenges and opportunities that came with this decision.

A Shift in Interest:

During my diploma in civil engineering, I gained valuable knowledge about the field and developed essential skills. However, as I progressed, I discovered my growing passion for computer science. The dynamic nature of the field and the potential to create innovative solutions fascinated me. Recognizing my interest, I made the bold decision to switch to computer science for my degree, embracing the challenges that lay ahead.

Overcoming Challenges☺:

Transitioning from a completely different field to computer science was not without its hurdles. I had to catch up on foundational concepts and bridge the knowledge gap. While my peers were familiar with programming languages and algorithms, I had to put in extra effort to grasp these fundamental concepts. However, my determination and passion fueled me to overcome these challenges. I got guidance from professors, engaged in self-study, and collaborated with classmates to enhance my understanding some names are Ravi Khadse, Shankar Sonar,  Amarbirsingh Randhawa,and Vaishnavi Thakare.


Adapting to a New Environment:

Besides the academic challenges, I found myself surrounded by students who had been pursuing computer science from the beginning. They possessed a wealth of knowledge and were already comfortable with the subject matter. Initially, I felt a sense of insecurity, but I quickly realized that my unique background brought a fresh perspective to the classroom discussions. My experience in civil engineering gave me a unique problem-solving approach that I could apply to computer science, allowing me to contribute to group projects and discussions in a meaningful way. 

Exploring New Horizons:

One of the most exciting aspects of studying computer science was the sheer diversity of opportunities it offered. From software development to artificial intelligence, the possibilities were vast. I took advantage of internships, hackathons, and workshops to explore different domains within computer science. These experiences allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge to practical situations, further reinforcing my decision to switch fields. It was exhilarating to see how my newfound skills could be used to develop innovative solutions and make a real impact.


Conclusion:

My journey as a direct second-year student, transitioning from civil engineering to computer science, has been a transformative experience. While it was challenging to adapt to a new field, the passion I had for computer science propelled me forward. Through perseverance and hard work, I overcame the initial hurdles and embraced the opportunities that came my way. Today, I am grateful for the decision I made, as it has opened doors to a world of possibilities and allowed me to combine my interests and skills in a meaningful way. If you find yourself torn between different fields, remember that it's never too late to follow your passion and pursue a path that aligns with your interests.

Story Inspired from :

1. Onkar Jagtap

2. Shrikant Chavan

3. Vaishnavi Bodake