Week 4 Learning Journal

 Zeyad Abdelkader

Learning Journal


Part 1,2,3,4 - 


My educational goal in the computer science program is to graduate with a solid, practical understanding of core concepts like algorithms, data structures, software design, and systems. I want to feel confident breaking down complex problems and turning them into efficient solutions. Along the way, I hope to earn strong grades, build meaningful projects, and become comfortable teaching myself new technologies. Beyond graduation, my goal is to continue learning so my skills stay relevant as the field evolves.

My career goal is to work in a computer science or software engineering role where I can solve challenging problems and see the impact of my work. I imagine myself collaborating with a technical team, contributing to important projects, and eventually taking on more responsibility in designing systems or mentoring others. No matter the specific job title, I want to be known as someone dependable with strong problem-solving skills.

If I were to take the ETS Computer Science test in 18 months, I estimate that I would score in approximately the 65th to 75th percentile. After reviewing the test description and sample questions, the breadth of topics feels challenging, especially since it requires quick recall across multiple areas of computer science. However, with additional coursework, consistent studying, and focused review over the next year and a half, I believe my understanding and performance will improve significantly, making this percentile a realistic and motivating goal.

From this week’s readings and activities, I learned that success in computer science depends more on persistence, consistent effort, and mindset than on natural talent. The materials emphasized that struggling with difficult concepts is a normal and important part of the learning process. I also learned the importance of setting clear goals, tracking progress, and actively reflecting on what I am learning. These ideas helped me better understand how to approach the CS program strategically and stay motivated even when the material becomes challenging.

Comments

  1. EricFebruary 7, 2026 at 10:56 AM

    Zeyad,

    I think your goals would benefit from more specificity of what you want to achieve, how you plan to achieve it, and by when you plan to achieve it. In your career goal, what kind of work would you like to do? Is it academic research, some category of software, or maybe in an industry like healthcare? If you want to demonstrate dependability and strong problem-solving skills, what steps might you take do demonstrate this to future employers or partners?

    ReplyDelete
  2. GraysonFebruary 9, 2026 at 12:24 PM

    Hey Zeyad, nice work on your goals. They're similar to my own but I think yours are more clearly defined and reachable.

    ReplyDelete
  3. LoiFebruary 10, 2026 at 10:43 PM

    Hi Zeyad,

    This is really solid because it’s clear and practical, and it shows you’re focused on the stuff that actually matters in CS. You’re not just saying “I want to graduate,” you’re saying you want to understand the core concepts, be able to break down hard problems, and keep learning on your own. If you want to make it even better, you could add one quick example of the kind of project you want to build. Aspiring to mentoring others is admirable. Good luck on your future career.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Anthony TorresFebruary 16, 2026 at 5:47 PM

    Hey Zeyad,

    I really like that your goal focuses on mastering the fundamentals like algorithms and systems, because that foundation will support you in any direction you choose later. It can be tough to narrow down career goals, especially in something as broad as computer science. As we move through the program and get exposed to different areas, that experience might naturally help you figure out what you enjoy most and where you want to focus. Building strong core skills now gives you flexibility later, and I think that approach will serve you well.

    ReplyDelete

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