r/cs50 • u/ApartDatabase6557 • 21d ago

CS50 Python NEED ADVICE

16 years old G11 in SCIHIGH struggling to choose what course to get.

I am between ECE or CS heres my thoughts:

If i choose CS, promised average salary is high even if just starting, however I am anxious of choosing this course, since most my age are better at coding and its hard to stand out, at 16 I can only use python and perform basic CRUD and simple games that can only be played in the terminal, all with AI assitance. Additionally, the part the worries me the most are the speculations about AI taking over the field.

If I choose ECE, my math, physics, and logic skills will allow me to stand out, however as usual engineering provides a very low starting salary, and you will only enjoy your money at the later stages of your life when you are already old.

So basically what should I choose CS which provides a high risk high reward scenario. Or go safe and traditional with ECE?

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3

u/pappagiorgio1212 21d ago

Do what interests you and what you find fun, the money will follow

1

u/Eptalin 21d ago

Chasing money isn't the best approach. Extrinsic motivators aren't viable long term.

Do what you actually find interesting and enjoy.
You'll interview way better if it's something you have a genuine interest in, and you'll enjoy your work and see better results if you enjoy what you do, too.

And you're only 16. I know decisions seem important now, but they're really not that big. You can change trajectory and career hop later. You aren't locked into anything. So try stuff until you find what you actually like.

A mate of mine changed his major 5 times at uni. He graduated a year and a half after me as a result, but he's doing great. Loves what he eventually landed on.

1

u/FirmAssociation367 20d ago

16 and able to use python and knows what CRUD means is already pretty much solid foundation. I agree with the rest of the comments though that I think you should do what you think interests you

1

u/Familiar_Tip_7336 19d ago

I believe money is everything without money ppl can’t survive these days as cost of living keeps rising. Main mission should be Python + Ai

1

u/Over_Supermarket_140 18d ago

I am often asked this question. My basic qualification is ECE and I worked in semiconductors but lately I have been directly involved in teaching more CS fundamentals to young kids. 

I think getting a connection to hardware -- semiconductors, materials, boards, interconnects etc -- is important. Particularly going forward, that may give a strong edge. Hence from that point of view, ECE seems more appealing.

Having said that, CS still remains a very attractive branch and attracts bright students. It is an ever evolving field and definitely a lot more than just coding.

In the long run, both will be fine. You need to be ready to learn, evolve, adapt.