Computer science majors are often depicted as antisocial men working in isolation in popular media, but the reality is far from it. Most women who are pursuing their computer science degrees have been fed misinformation about their future careers. So, it's time to banish these myths.
1. You will become friends with most of the other women in your major
Although many universities are actively trying to recruit more women into computer science majors, they continue to be a minority on most campuses. So you will most likely be able to spot the few girls in your computer science lectures become friends with one another throughout the semester.
2. In fact, you will join at least one of the many organizations dedicated to supporting fellow women in STEM and in computer science
Whether it's your campus' chapter of Women in Computer Science or Society of Women Engineers, there is bound to be at least one activity at your university dedicated to bringing together women in fields where they are generally a minority (CS being one of them). Depending on the organization, you will be able to attend networking sessions with big companies, panels with female alumni in the workforce now, and be connected with various local and national (even international) job opportunities.
3. You will be a part of one of the many communities of women in computer science
From groups on Facebook such as Ladies Storm Hackathon to the annual Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing, women around the world who are like you have your back.
4. The job opportunities are endless!
Sort of. Those with computer science degrees are one of the most sought after in nearly all industries. If you search for open software engineering positions at companies from Estée Lauder to Condé Nast (parent company of Vogue) to IBM, you will find one if not many job listings!
5. You will not be stuck behind a computer screen for the rest of your life
Computer science is one of the most versatile majors and can bring you around the world. It gives you a background and skills that any industry wants. If you decide to step away from programming heavy careers, you will have no problem transitioning to a different role. Many are able to excel in marketing and sales because of the widespread use of Internet services.
6. Finally, you do not have to compromise your creativity
With the plethora of options out there, you will learn to embrace the qualities that separate you from other computer science majors. There may be things that you pick up on that your project groups in college or teams at your summer internship may have glossed over. Speaking up about them and embracing your differences will allow you to excel in your field — no matter where you decide to take your CS degree. Find a place that will allow you to use your skills and values your input. And if you can't find one, start one! You have a community of women in computer science backing you up.
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