Trying to figure it out

[ThatOneGuy]

Good Day

I am trying to figure out what is going on in programming in South Africa. I am in my last semester of completing my BSc degree in Computer Science. I have started browsing online to look for job opportunities for a junior/graduate programmer in South Africa and I soon realized that I don’t really fit in well. The degree I took focused on C++ as programming language, a lot of math (which is good for problem solving) and other computer science subjects like interaction design, artificial intelligence and computer organization to name some.

The jobs available are mostly for C#.net, VB.net or java developers to start off with, barely, almost none requires a good C++ programmer. Now as far as my knowledge go (and it’s not much so I may be wrong) the two main types of programmers: Desktop product developers and web based application developers. Desktop products are typically written in C#, VB.NET, or Java. Web applications are typically written in ASP.NET, PHP, Ruby on Rails, or Java. I know Game development uses a lot of C++. Should I learn these on my own or do courses on them?

Now I read the job requirements further. ‘Must have good SQL and Database design skills and knowledge.’ The first thing I am thinking is “Yes I had Principles of Databases as subject, but the syllabus was all about the theory of databases.” All the chapters about SQL were skipped. I have never practically designed a database except on paper. Another thing I have to add to the self-study list.

The same goes for the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Yes I know what it is and the stages but I have never been shown how to apply these stages to a project. Add to self-study list.

So now my point or question rather is, what is my degree really worth now? Am I completely wrong and missing something huge? Why am I being learned C++ in the first place? Did I choose the wrong degree? Am I the only one that’s a little lost at the moment?

I have started learning C# and Java on my own that I don’t really find that hard because I have the C++ background which is a plus. Started with HTML, CSS and JavaScript tutorials as well. But I need some insight, some help, and some direction at the moment.

 

[Beachless]

The language wont matter much in the end and hopefully you will learn a few during your career.
What you need to find now is a good intern position with great senior devs that will teach you all the practical aspects of the theory and from who you can continue to learn.
You also need to find out what kind of development you really enjoy as the field is vast and you are likely to be bored in some areas and extremely interested in others.

Finding that first good company to work for that will invest in you is your first hurdle(dont worry too much about pay, good experience will be worth far more in the end)

 

[guest2013-1]

Programming isn't just about language.

Let's equate that to something a varsity student would understand: Women have boobs, you want to have sex with women. Does it matter what language she speaks to be able to have sex with them and enjoy the boobies? NO

Same goes for programming. You have the fundamentals. Now it's just getting a junior entry position. You'll learn all of what you mentioned on the job.

Your degree is worth about 5k per month more than someone who learned these things the hard way and without school. Trust me. Keep on looking for junior entry level positions, all this **** you learn on the job and doesn't require you having to have to go study from scratch again.

FYI, you'd be able to do PHP and JavaScript pretty well as well with a c++ background (assuming you meant Java, and not JavaScript in your OP. Because Java is to JavaScript like Car is to Carpet)

One thing you have to decide though is, do you want to move into web development or application development etc. Going from there it'd be easy. But like I've said again and again. You will learn this from experience. Go to a reputable recruitment agency that handles placements, let them worry about all the nitty gritty stuff.

 

[twicode]

What uni is that? Bloemfontein?

 

[cguy]

Learning the languages you menrioned while knowing C++ is much easier than going in the other direction, which is why I believ C++ was a very good choice.

There are definitely positions out there that require C++ and maths skills. You should look at engineering, science and banking/finance related fields.

In my experience, if you would consider yourself the top of your class, there are many overseas companies that would love someone with your skill set.

 

[walter_l]

Firstly...

Java is to JavaScript like Car is to Carpet

^ That.

I agree with AcidRaZor and Beachless; CS is great, you'll be fine.

I would just like to add something semi-related: Don't stress about the requirements in job adverts. Companies describe their ideal candidates. A corollary is that, if you meet all requirements in a job advert, you are (probably) overqualified for the job and/or will be underpaid. I'm not saying you should go for senior positions right out of the gate (you won't get it), but to rather apply for a junior position, even though you don't meet the requirements, than to not apply. What's the worst that could happen?

P.S. If you think finding a C++ job is hard, try looking for a Linux+Python one!

 

[ThatOneGuy]

Thank you for all the advice guys. They are really reassuring!

@AcidRazor: That depends, she could be a foreign student so then I need another language.

@Twicode: University of South Africa (UNISA).

 

[Mr.Jax]

Your degree is certainly not wasted.

Knowing c++ makes for a great foundation in your software development career. If you could find a C++ I'd say take it; get some real world experience in c++. At the same time, self tutor yourself in one of the modern languages, because, moving forwards, you'll need it. I've been doing software development (commercially) for 16 years and have found that the best of the best guys usually have a strong c/c++ background.

(But on the other hand, work is scarce, so if you can land a job using a different language, go for it!)

Just my 2c

 

[zippy]

Being taught C++ and Database Principles is quite possibly the best preparation anyone could hope for starting out.